The Ultimate Guide to Core-Strengthening Exercises for Athletes

Shoulder taps target the stabilizer muscles located at the front of the abdomen, specifically the deep muscles surrounding the area known as the six-pack. It's essential to keep the hips and shoulders aligned and parallel to the floor during this exercise. Be cautious to prevent any twisting or swaying from side to side.

Begin the exercise in a push-up position, with both hands and feet flat on the ground. Before proceeding, ensure your body is properly aligned. Your shoulders should be relaxed, positioned away from the ears. The line from the shoulder to the wrist should be straight. Engage the core by tucking the tailbone and activating the muscles around the belly button. Additionally, engage the thigh muscles by pulling up the kneecaps, and ensure that the heel aligns directly above the ball of the foot.

To execute the exercise, while keeping your hips and shoulders aligned with the floor, lift your right hand and tap your left shoulder. Return the right hand to the ground in a controlled manner. Then, repeat the movement using the left hand to tap the right shoulder. Aim to complete a set of 10 repetitions for each side.

Coach Mike Ockrim

Meet the Mighty Oak

Coach Mike Ockrim is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach, MovNat Level 1 Coach, and founder of Mighty Oak Athletic, a youth strength and conditioning facility in Westmont, Illinois, serving student athletes and families across DuPage County and the western Chicago suburbs.

His “Be strong to be useful” philosophy and Death Resistant framework — Recovery, Movement, and Nutrition — anchor MOA’s programs and his work as a keynote speaker for schools, athletic departments, and community organizations.

Michael has more than 30 years of training experience, has been a group fitness instructor at Life Time Athletic for over 8 years, and is a second-degree black belt in USA Taekwondo. He is also the founder of Sunday Funday Sports, a youth sports nonprofit, and is pursuing a culinary degree at College of DuPage to sharpen his expertise in performance nutrition for young athletes.

Michael is the author of three books, all available on Amazon:

Death Resistant: A Common Sense Guide to Live Long and Drop Dead Healthy — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KBJXCQH

13 Pounds in 30 Days

Mighty Oak Athletic Nutrition — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFTDM4K4

To book Coach Mike for a speaking engagement or learn about MOA’s youth strength and conditioning programs, email strength@mightyoakathletic.com or CLICK HERE.

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider with questions about a medical condition, nutrition plan, or fitness program.

http://www.MichaelOckrim.com
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