Which exercise is recommended for increasing core strength?

The hang clean is a powerful exercise that not only builds strength but also enhances core stability. When performing a hang clean, the movement requires engagement of the abdominal and lower back muscles to maintain proper posture and ensure balance throughout the lift. This dynamic exercise activates multiple muscle groups, promoting overall body coordination and strength, particularly in the core, as it serves as the stabilizing center during the explosive movement.

In contrast, other options like the incline bench press primarily focus on upper body strength, targeting the chest, shoulders, and triceps, without significantly engaging the core. The sit-and-reach test is more of a flexibility assessment and does not actively develop muscle strength. The deadlift is indeed a compound movement that engages the core; however, it is often classified as a lower body strength exercise rather than a direct core-specific workout. Thus, among the choices, the hang clean is the most tailored exercise for effectively enhancing core strength while also providing benefits to overall athletic performance.