Plank


Core



Preparation

  • Lie on the floor with your toes on the ground and forearms flat – elbows directly below your shoulders.

  • This is your starting position.

Movement

  • Engage your core muscles, and raise your body off the ground. 
    TIP: Keep your body rigid in a straight line, with no sagging or bending.

  • Hold this for the recommended length of time.

  • Drop your body back to the ground after the work period is over.

  • Repeat for recommended sets.

Benefits

  • Improved core strength.

  • Helps to stabilise, balance and power the body during other activities.

  • Reduced stress on the joints, allowing you to achieve better posture.

  • Increased calorie burn.

  • Increased spine and back support.

Muscles Used

  • Abdominals — Primary Muscle. 

  • Obliques — Primary Muscle.

  • Erector Spinae — Secondary Muscle.

  • Shoulders — Secondary Muscle.

Safety

If you have/had shoulder injuries, or are pregnant, consult your doctor before performing this exercise.
If you feel lower back pain, drop down to your knees to simplify the exercise.