Planks are one of the most effective ways to work your abs and use all your abdominal muscles. There are 4 parts to your abs: rectus abdominis, internal obliques, external obliques and transverse abdominis. Not to mention they work your back, arms, hips and glutes.
Exercises that force you to brace your spine and pelvis activate more muscle fibers and help build definition.
The nice thing about planks is you can do them anywhere and you there is no equipment needed. They are also great when short on time, traveling, or moms that want to get their tummies back.
If you have weak abs or are new to exercising, please do all planks on your knees until you feel strong enough with good form to go to your toes. Feel free to do the planks on your hands or elbows, you choose.
1. regular plank – hands or elbows
2. plank with alternating hand taps
3. plank intervals (10 sec. hold / 2 sec. rest) 6x
4. walking planks
Watch the clip from NBC.
More variations coming in February. Let me know how the exercises are working for you and if you have any questions. Have fun toning that core.
Ali
