What does "activate your core" really mean?

You’ve probably heard the term ‘activate your core’ many times, especially if you have been researching how to perform different strength training exercises or if you’ve done something like yoga in the past. What does this term actually mean, and why is it used so often?

The term ‘activate your core’ refers to the process of contracting your abdominal muscles (and sometimes your spinal stabilizers too). When you embrace your core muscles, it increases your upper body and lower body stabilization and balance. It also helps to keep you upright and keeps your spine neutral.

Activating your core during workouts (strength training exercises and cardio) and even day-to-day activities will enable you to lift more weight more easily. It will also lower your risk of injuries and muscle strains.