The Plank

Although the plank appears to be a simple exercise, it is a great way to build a rock solid core, shoulders, arms, and glutes. The plank is a great core workout that should be attempted before any heavy weight exercises.

the plank, plank core workout, ab workout

 

To perform "The Plank" you simply get into pshup position on the floor and bend your elbows 90 degrees. The weight of your upper body should be on your forearms. Your elbows should be directly under each of your shoulders and your body should be in a straight line from your head to your feet. Squeeze your abs to hold the plank position.

Hold this position for as long as you can. The average person can only hold "The Plank" for 30 seconds. Your goal should be to hold the plank position for 2 minutes.

Once you are able to hold the plank for longer than 2 minutes you can move on to tougher variations such as:

• Lift one leg up in the air to increase the demands on your core.
• Lift One Arm up will also increase the demands on the core as your body tries to remain balanced.
• Use a Swiss ball to rest your forearms on. Your body will tighten as you try to keep the ball from rolling out from under you.
   

Workout Tip Title: The Plank
Tagged: the plank, plank core workout, ab workout
URL: http://www.workoutxpert.com/tips/the-plank-core.aspx

the plank, plank core workout, ab workout
Although the plank appears to be a simple exercise, it is a great way to build a rock solid core, shoulders, arms, and glutes. The plank is a great core workout that should be attempted before any heavy weight exercises.