Front Plank
Step by step
How to perform
- Place your elbows directly under your shoulders with your forearms and hands flat on the ground, parallel to each other.
- Push up off the floor, raising up onto your toes and resting mainly on your elbows.
- Contract your abs to keep yourself up and prevent your bottom from sticking up. Keep your body straight at all times.
- Hold this position for as long as you can, aiming for 30 seconds to a minute, then slowly lower yourself back onto the floor.
Overview
About this exercise
The Front Plank is a highly effective core strengthening exercise that targets not only your abdominal muscles, but also your shoulders, back, and hips. It is suitable for individuals at any fitness level, from beginners to advanced athletes, due to its adaptability and variations. People would want to do this exercise because it can improve posture, enhance balance, and reduce back pain, making it a comprehensive workout for overall body strength.
Coaching cues
Form tips
Engaging your core is crucial in performing a front plank effectively. This not only helps to stabilize your body but also maximizes the benefits of the exercise. A common mistake is forgetting to engage the core and instead straining the neck or shoulders.
Avoid straining your neck by keeping it in a neutral position. Your gaze should be towards the floor, and your head should be in line with your back. A common mistake is either lifting the head too high or letting it drop, which puts unnecessary strain on the neck.
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