To preserve and maintain back health, we must learn to use our legs; triple flexion then triple extension. We must be aware of our body in space and how our spine is positioned in relation to our hips.
It's not about static core strength for me. It's about AWESOMENESS, awareness, alignment, mobility and dynamic strength of the lower extremities.
This is the type of functional strength a coach should teach an athlete. This is how we need to use our legs. The ability to squat is a physical competency everyone should master.
No we don't need to squat a house, but we do need to learn how to lower & raise our bodies, within the context of gravity, in an effective manner. Start with a sit to stand from a chair, then progress to a med ball squat. Learn to hold the bottom position and feel it. Feel the floor; learn to push it away. Then if appropriate, use a Hexlite bar, weighted vest or barbell to increase the resistance. Teach the basics and then give the athlete movement problems to lift and solve.
Wolfie
Eat for growth, train for strength, live for the MOMENT.