Overhead Pressing and your core

[MMX]

Just wanted to share with everyone here.

It was almost a year ago that I change my routines and began experimenting with KB's and more old timey things like Turkish Get Ups and Overhead Pressing.

I have not done any isolated core work since 2011(I think...would have to check logs to make sure..)

Anyway my point.

My Torso area especially my abs,obliques,lower back,ETC is like a band of steel now.

The effect of OHP on your torso is of a serious benefit to "Knockdown Fighters"

Just wanted to share that.

[curlbroscience]

I agree. My core feels much stronger despite not doing any high volume ab work.

[GJEC]

Even at my doddery age I've got visible abs etc. I know 'abs are made in the kitchen' but my point is, it's all from presses. I do no specific core work, just brace 'as if I'm taking a punch' as I press overhead.

Another part of the WTH? effect of KB's

Gary

[curlbroscience]

I agree. My abdominal region feels thicker or more massive.

I think it is in the way that KB exercises are performed. Standing. Rooted. Etc.

[GJEC]

Just picking things up and putting them over your head seems to work everything. Weak links in the body just have to catch up.

For anyone thinking of doing this: Go easy until the technique is spot on and stop BEFORE you get tired. There are better ways to build grit and determination than risking dropping weights on your head.

Gary

[meguro]

I've experienced the same effect from just cleaning the weight to your shoulders. As long as your core is stabilizing the spine under compression, you will see benefits. Of course, overhead increases the lever arm and so the effect is magnified. Front squats, goblet squats, and over head pressing, good stuff. Single arm overhead pressing is probably the king, due to the extra balancing/stabilizing the core must do.

[paul]

I have fun with single arm farmer walks using a 24K and 32 K in one hand. Great for the obliques and grip.