What's the best cue for core stability?

 A good cue is the draw in and brace maneuver. To envision the draw in and brace maneuver is to imagine a string is attached to your belly button that's runs through your body and out your back. The string pulls your belly button up and in towards your spine tightening your abdominal cavity and creating bracing and pressure within the cavity. Some power lifters also recommend using the valsalva maneuver (resisting while holding your breathe) to increase pressure in the cavity to further provide support. However, studies and medical experts suggest that doing so can dramatically increase your risk of an acute cardiac episode such as stroke, strain on the valves of the heart, and blood vessel ruptures, so the maneuver is not recommended.