Planking tops the list of the exercises that target the core. Plank exercises have been proved effective in strengthening your core muscles. It includes workout of all muscle groups as:
• The Transverse Abdominis- Plank workout protects it and offers stability.
• Rectus Abdominis commonly known as six-pack muscles.
• Erector Spinae
• External Obliques more commonly known as love handles. These are the muscles around your waist.
• Internal Obliques
Apart from these muscle groups, plank exercises also work on your upper and lower body muscles, including pectoral, Serratus, quadriceps, tensor fasciae Latae and Sartorius muscles. The workout also reduces stress. When performing the exercises the muscles tighten, causing tension. The plank workout improves your mood and mental well-being.
Here are the five basic plank workouts that are popular:
Basic plank: Lie down on the floor in a push-up position. Bend the elbows and place the forearms closely on your sides of the chest. Now using your forearms and toes, raise yourself while keeping your body in a straight line. Maintain this position for ten seconds and then increase the length of the time.
Variation: If you are unable to perform the basic plank, bring in this variation to it. Do not lift yourself using forearms and toes, use your forearms and knees instead. Keep in a straight line from your shoulders down to your feet.
Leg Lifts: In the same position, lift one leg around 7 to 8 inches off the floor. Hold the position for around two seconds and perform same in the second leg. Ensure you perform three sets.
Arm Lifts: In the same position, shift your weight on one arm and then carefully lift other arm.
Side plank: Lay down with your elbow resting beneath your shoulder, extend the forearm in front of you. Now lift your body with your elbow. Keep your body straight. Hold the position for ten seconds slowly lowering back to the floor using your hip.
Ensure you adopt diaphragmatic breathing. Breathe from your nose. It fills your stomach with air and then slowly exhale through the mouth. These are the five basic plank exercises that are highly effective.
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