Your abs are part of your core, which includes your pelvic muscles, hips and the muscles that support the spine. Strong, able abs contribute to a healthy core, forming a powerful axis for your whole body.
Your abdominals act as an anchor for muscles of the mid and lower back. If your abs are weak, it forces the back muscles to work harder to support your middle. Abdominal strength improves the endurance of the muscles of your back so you fatigue less easily and are less vulnerable to strain or injury.
Strong abs also keep your belly from protruding too far forward and altering your center of gravity. If your abs are weak — especially if you're overweight — this forward lean stresses your back.
Strong abs help prevent an exaggerated anterior tilt to the pelvis. If you have this pelvic tilt, you may experience too much pressure on the lower back's discs and facet joints, flexible points that enable your back to bend. This pressure often leads to weakness, pain and potential rupture. Strong abs keep your vertebrae in alignment to prevent such deterioration.
If you already suffer from back pain, abdominal exercises may help alleviate the ache by creating a more balanced body. Yoga and Pilates, for example, build abdominal strength and stability that supports a healthy back.
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