Your core includes all the muscles in your torso, from your shoulders down to your hips. Core work is different from strength-training programs that isolate a single muscle group. Instead, they challenge as many muscles as possible in integrated, coordinated movements. There are important gains that come from improving core strength besides how your midsection looks. Benefits include better balance, reduced back pain and easier breathing. Because many of your body’s movements originate from your core, working toward improving its strength will enhance your posture, spinal alignment, athletic performance and more.