Wondering, “are planks good for abs?”
Try these variations and find out.
If you’ve been searching for the best exercises to strengthen your core muscles, you’re not alone.
Photo: Peter Ardito
Even an entire hour of crunches won’t match the benefits of a 10-minute plank workout.
Wondering, “Are planks good for abs, or should I do other moves instead?”
Well, theplank exerciseis actually a full-core strengthener so def don’t skip it.
Peter Ardito
Why not just focus on the six-pack muscles?Core strengthis about more than looks, for one.
Repeat the entire series three times in total.
For a killer core workout, combine all six plank exercises into one routine.
Peter Ardito
Forearm Plank
A.Start in a high plank (or push-up) position.
B.Bend elbows and rest weight on forearms instead of hands.
The body should form a straight line from shoulders to ankles.
Peter Ardito
C.Brace core as if about to be punched in the stomach.
(Don’tforget to breathethroughout this plank exercise.)
Hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Peter Ardito
Plank with Leg Lift
A.Start in a forearm plank position with abs braced.
B.Engage glutes to lift and hold one foot a few inches off the floor, foot flexed.
Return foot to the ground to complete the rep.
Do 10 lifts with one leg.
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Switch sides; repeat.
Side Plank
A.Lie on your left side with your knees straight.
Prop the body up on your left elbow and forearm, then stack your feet.
Peter Ardito
B.Raise hips until body forms a straight line from ankles to shoulders.
C.Brace abs and breathe deeply for the duration of the plank exercise.
Hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Switch sides; repeat.
B.Keep core braced and lift the right (top) leg as high as possible while maintaining proper form.
Flex your foot and point your toes slightly down.
That’s one rep.
Do 10 reps. Switch sides; repeat.
B.Set feet close together and straighten legs, keeping weight on toes.
The body should form a straight line from ankles to head.
C.Brace abs and squeeze glutes to help keep the body rigid.
Straight-Arm Plank with Shoulder Touch
B.Set feet close together and straighten legs, keeping weight on toes.
C.Drop shoulder blades down and back and keep a straight line from head to ankles.
D.Keeping hips still (they’ll want to move!
), lift right hand and tap left shoulder.
Slowly replace the right hand and repeat with the left hand.
Continue alternating for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
