Yoga is all about finding balance, from your breath to how you stand and focus. In the physical practice of yoga, having a strong and focused core is key to holding any pose. Without it, your yoga practice might not be as effective. The Cleveland Clinic explains just how important a strong core is and shares some yoga poses to help you build it. Many people mistakenly believe their core is just their stomach muscles, but it's actually much more! Your core includes your diaphragm (your main breathing muscle), hip flexors and hip adductor muscles (in your hips and inner thighs), gluteal muscles (your butt muscles), and pelvic floor muscles (at the base of your pelvis). These large muscle groups give you stability and support for almost every move you make daily. A strong core helps your body handle daily forces, reducing strain on your joints. Poses You Should Do To Gain Strength The following yoga poses are designed to build your core strength. Start by holding each pose for two to three breaths, then gradually increase the hold time as you get stronger. If a pose is done on one side, remember to repeat it on the other side for a balanced workout. Move into and out of these poses slowly to protect your muscles and joints. If you have pain that has lasted longer than two weeks or a specific injury, always talk to a healthcare professional, like a physical therapist, for personalized advice. Spinal Balance (Balancing Table Pose) This pose helps strengthen your core and lengthen your spine. Start on hands and knees, pull your belly in, and keep your back flat. Reach one arm forward. For more challenge, lift the opposite leg back, keeping hips level. This pose might be harder with knee or arm/shoulder mobility issues. Side Plank Side plank improves balance and strengthens your core without straining your back. Begin like a push-up. Turn to one side, supporting yourself on one outstretched arm with your shoulder over your wrist. Keep hips stacked and lifted. Spread fingers wide, pulling shoulders from ears. For an easier version, rest on your bottom knee. Plank This simple pose builds strength in your upper body, forearms, wrists, and primarily the front of your stomach muscles. From hands and knees, lift hips and straighten legs. Squeeze your belly, pulling your belly button up. Bring shoulder blades together and tighten thighs to keep your body straight. You can drop to your knees for an easier option. Remember to breathe into your chest. Boat Pose Boat pose is challenging but adaptable. The goal is to keep your back straight and chest lifted, avoiding slouching. Sit with bent knees, hands behind you. Lift lower legs parallel to the mat, pulling your belly in. For more challenge, extend arms forward, or even straighten both legs, aiming for a "V" shape balancing on your sit bones. Chair Pose Chair pose is a standing exercise that works your thighs, ankles, and core, requiring focus. From standing, squat down, bending knees. Press inner thighs together, shifting weight to heels, and drop your tailbone. Raise arms overhead. Hold as long as you can. For an easier option, bring hands to your chest. For a deeper challenge, sink lower.