What Are the Results of Deep Core Exercises? And Top 3 Examples

Professional cheerleading demands a high level of athleticism, strength, and flexibility, all of which are heavily reliant on a strong and stable core. While traditional workouts target superficial muscles, deep core exercises dive deeper, strengthening the stabilizing muscles that provide essential support and control.

Let's explore the transformative results of deep core exercises and highlight three exemplary routines that can take your cheerleader workouts to new heights.

The Core of Deep Core Exercises

Deep core exercises target the muscles of the innermost abdominal region, including the transverse abdominis, pelvic floor muscles, and multifidus. Unlike superficial muscles, which focus on movement, these deep core muscles are responsible for stabilizing the spine, pelvis, and trunk, providing a solid foundation for dynamic movements and graceful transitions.

Benefits of Deep Core Exercises for Pro Cheerleaders

Enhanced Stability and Balance

Strong deep core muscles serve as the body's internal support system, promoting stability and balance during intricate stunts and jumps. Improved stability minimizes the risk of injury and allows cheerleaders to execute precise movements with confidence and control.

Improved Posture and Alignment

Deep core exercises help correct imbalances and weaknesses in the core musculature, leading to improved posture and alignment. Proper alignment not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also optimizes performance by maximizing energy efficiency and reducing strain on the body.

Read more: 6 Easy Ways to Improve Your Posture

Increased Power and Explosiveness

A strong deep core forms the foundation for generating power and explosiveness in cheerleading maneuvers. By strengthening the core muscles, pro cheerleaders can generate greater force and momentum, resulting in higher jumps, stronger kicks, and more dynamic routines that captivate audiences.

Top 3 Examples of Deep Core Exercises for Pro Cheerleaders

1. Plank Variations

Planks are a staple of deep core training, targeting the entire core musculature while also engaging the shoulders, arms, and legs for a full-body workout.

To deepen the challenge, try incorporating variations such as side planks, planks with leg lifts, or planks with arm reaches. Aim to hold each plank variation for 30-60 seconds while maintaining proper form and alignment.

Learn more: 8 Best Moves to Strengthen Your Core

2. Dead Bug

The dead bug exercise is an effective way to strengthen the deep core muscles while also improving coordination and stability. 

Lie on your back with arms extended towards the ceiling and knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Slowly lower one arm and the opposite leg towards the floor, maintaining contact between the lower back and the ground. 

Return to the starting position and repeat on the other side. Perform 10-12 repetitions on each side, focusing on controlled movements and steady breathing.

3. Bird Dog

The bird dog exercise targets the deep core muscles along with the muscles of the back and glutes, promoting spinal stability and alignment.

Begin on your hands and knees with wrists aligned under shoulders and knees under hips. Extend one arm forward and the opposite leg back while maintaining a neutral spine. Hold for a moment, then return to the starting position and switch sides. 

Aim for 10-12 repetitions on each side, focusing on maintaining balance and control throughout the movement.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating these deep core exercises into your training regimen can yield significant benefits for pro cheerleaders. They help with enhancing stability, power, and performance on the mat and on the sidelines! 

Need a Great Workout Routine for Your Pro Cheer Audition Prep?

Pro cheerleaders stay fit, flexible, and strong so they can give their best performance in the arena. However, achieving that wow-worthy, toned physique doesn’t happen overnight. You need to arm yourself with the right daily workouts.

Thinking of becoming a pro cheerleader? 

We are offering you our fun, FREE (for a LIMITED time) POM FIT™ INTRO CLASS that teaches you beginner-friendly cardio moves.

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