It's hard to know which of your muscles you work daily, or just how important they are, until you hurt one. The day after a strenuous ab workout can result in extremely sore muscles, and anything from coughing to reaching for an object can cause great discomfort. The core muscles, including the abs, are worked the most on a daily basis.
The Core
Your core consists of your abdominals, the muscles on the sides of your abs, called obliques, and the lower back. You have no stability in your body without a strong core, and the stronger it is, the better your balance. You core is involved in any movement you make and any workout that you engage in.
Levers
Your body uses three "lever" movements, and though all are necessary, one is used more than the others. The first class lever is a "push" lever and involves the triceps muscles in your arms. The second class lever is a "raising" lever involving the calves. The third class lever is a "pull" lever, always using the bicep muscles. It is the last lever movement, the third class, that we use more than any other. Whether you're pulling a door shut, picking up a box or grabbing a cucumber at a grocery store, all of those movements use your bicep muscles.
Lower Body
When you walk, the muscles in the front of your legs, called the quadriceps, are worked when you push off. When you take a step, planting your feet down, the muscles in the back of your legs, called the hamstrings, are engaged. Regardless of which phase of walking you're in, your calves are always involved, so in the lower body, these muscles are used the most.
Conclusion
Regardless of which part of your body is being used, your core is always involved. It can be used in a smaller capacity when a part of it is injured or sore, but only very limited movement is possible when the entirety of your core is injured. Consult a certified personal trainer to understand ways to strengthen your core and to ensure proper posture and balance.
References
- "Principles of Anatomy and Physiology"; Tortora & Derrickson; 2009
- "ACSM's Resources for the Personal Trainer"; American College of Sports Medicine; 2009
