Upper body power is crucial for optimum performance in numerous sports. The arms and torso both generate and control power. A rugby hand off or boxing punch are obvious examples of the former, whilst the latter takes a little more explaining. When performing a sports skill the torso acts as a transmission – controlling the forces that are generated. For example, if a sprinter does not have strong and relevantly conditioned abdominal and back muscles then power will be wasted in lateral movements as the athlete powers down the track. Additionally a weak and non-specifically conditioned core will reduce the risk of injury.

Click here to see the main article for detailed description and explanation of exercises seen in this video.