Learn how to do an L-sit the full-body exercise that looks simple, but will seriously work your core.

The plank overtook both the crunch and sit-up for the title of “best core exercise.”

But there’s a new move in town that rivals the planks in effectiveness and importance.

exerciser doing crossfit gymnastics l-sit exercise

Photo: Leszek Glasner/Shutterstock

It’s time to give this move the attention it deserves.

Ready to try one?

“With straight arms, place your hands on the floor or on the equipment,” explains Pearce.

exerciser doing an l-sit workout move, balancing on yoga blocks

Jon Medel

(Yoga blocksalso work).

Stand between them and place palms on each side, under shoulders.

As you build strength, increase the time to 45 seconds, and then 1 minute or more.

Sounds simple enough, right?

“It is simple,” agrees Pearce.

“But it’s also one of the most challenging core exercises there is.

Basically, you’re flexing the muscles without actually moving.

“Maybe you’re looking at the movement and thinking ‘no way,'” says Tovar.

“You want to meet our body where it is at.

Experts explain how to switch up the intensity of the exercise, below.

L-Sit Modification for Beginners: Chair L-Sit

Try this beginner variation to start.

make a run at hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides.

A.Begin in the tuck position with knees to chest.

B.Keep knees bent and close to chest, not fully extended.

C.Once comfortable, try for the regular L-sit.

Because rings can swing, your core and shoulder muscles have to work extra hard to keep you stable.

Try an L-sit rope climb or L-sit pull-up.

Instead, try adding it to a core-specific workout or to your warm-up or cool-down.

“That’s typical because L-sits are hard!”

A brutal way to wake up?

Sure, but you’ll get an incredibly strong core in the process.