This exercise engages a number of stomach and low back muscles which helps with strengthening in those areas.
Watch the video below to see how to properly perform a plank and follow along at home.
Instructions
- Lie on your front with your toes on the floor.
- Place your forearms on the floor and push up, lifting your torso and legs.
- Hold a straight line from your shoulders to your feet without letting the back sag. You should feel the core muscles working as you hold this position.
- Hold this position. Your clinician will advise how long to hold this for as well as how many repetitions to do.
Common Mistakes and Top Tips
- Try not to let your hips drop too low or raise the hips too high.
- Do not overarch or round the low back.
- Try not to overextend the neck by looking up too much.
- Remember to continue to breathe, do not hold your breath.
- Place the hands directly under the shoulders and try not to completely lock out the elbows.
- If a full plank is too difficult, try with the knees on the floor but still keep the spine in line.
