by Leslee Bender (Author)

Vital Core Training is more than just another core training book; it is an indispensable resource with insights and strategies that will empower you to better assess clients’ needs, enhance program design, and implement core movement training that will yield results for individuals and groups of all ages and abilities. Leslee Bender—the creator of the Bender Ball™, a former IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year, and a 40-year veteran in the fitness industry—will show you how to apply myofascial lengthening and release techniques, in combination with functional exercise, to help clients decrease pain, build strength, enhance mobility, boost flexibility, improve balance, and optimize everyday function. In Vital Core Training, she explains the how, why, and when of 78 exercises and stretches, most requiring no equipment other than a small ball, making them accessible and effective for strengthening the core while protecting the back. With step-by-step instructions and detailed photos, you’ll learn how to adjust techniques for various fitness levels and incorporate the exercises into client programming. You will also find 11 workouts; each can be used as is or customized to specific needs or goals. Core essentials workouts for beginning, intermediate, and advanced clients Targeted workouts for maintaining everyday function, improving posture and back health, and addressing alignment dysfunctions Workouts for popular rotational sports: pickleball, tennis, and golf Vital Core Training offers an evidence-based approach to core work that equips fitness professionals and movement specialists with the tools to help clients move efficiently, safely, and without pain. Earn continuing education credits/units! A continuing education exam that uses this book is also available. It may be purchased separately or as part of a package that includes both the book and exam.