From CanoePolo.org

Current sport research shows that core stability is essential to sports performance and injury prevention. Core stability is recognized to be important for canoe polo and should be incorporated into training program.

[edit] Introduction

The "core" refers to muscles of the torso that stabilize the spine and provide a solid foundation for movement. When these muscles contract, they stabilize the the spine, pelvis and shoulders and create a solid base of support. We are then able to generate powerful movements of the extremities.

The aim of core stability training is to strengthen the core muscles. Training the muscles of the core also corrects postural imbalances and can help to prevent injuries.

The main concepts of core strengthening programs involve using many muscles in a coordinated movement. Rather than isolating a specific muscle as in most weight lifting, stability exercises focus on working the deep muscles of the entire torso at once.

The biggest benefit of core training is to develop functional fitness - that is, fitness that is essential to both daily living and regular activities.

[edit] Core stability and canoe polo

In canoe polo the player sits on an unstable platform, strong core stability helps to maintain balance and provides a strong base for movements from kayak control to shooting.