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Building an Astronaut Core

Your Mission: Perform the Commander Crunch and Pilot Plank to improve the strength in abdominal and back muscles.

Astronauts in space must be able to twist, bend, lift, and carry massive objects. They must have strong core muscles so they can perform their tasks efficiently and avoid injury. In order to maintain muscle strength while in space, astronauts practice core-building activities before, during, and after their missions.
Skills
Strength, Endurance, Balance
Learning Objectives
  • perform the Commander Crunch and Pilot Plank to improve abdominal and back muscle strength
  • record observations about improvements in core muscle strength during this physical experience in the Mission Journal
Equipment
  • Watch or stopwatch
  • For students: Mission Journal and pencil
Time
10-15 minutes per class
 

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