Abdominal Exercises: All You Need To Know About The Plank.

There are various exercises you can choose from when it comes to working the abdominal muscles. Each different exercise targets a slightly different section of your abdominals, therefore it is essential that you pick the right combination of exercises so that each muscle develops equally. One exercise that should always be a staple in an abdominal workout routine is the plank. Read on to find out what it is that makes the plank such a fantastic exercise and why it should be fundamental to any abdominal workout routine.

How Is The Plank Performed?

The plank is a pretty straightforward exercise to perform. Even if you are a beginner there is nothing difficult that you will find about it. The way it is performed is by first lying face down on the ground. You should then raise up onto your toes and rest on your elbows. You can either choose to lay your hands flat on the ground or scrunch them into fists. Your back should be completely flat. If you have not done the plank before then it is worth getting someone to help you make sure that your back is completely parallel with the ground. When in this position you should contract your abdominal muscles. See how long you can maintain this position without falling to the ground. Don’t be surprised if you can’t hold the position for that long when you first start out. As you practice your core will get stronger and you will get better.

What Muscles Does The Plank Work?

This seems like a pretty obvious question as the plank is an exercise for the abdominal muscles. But not many people realise it works a whole lot of other muscles as well. The major muscles that the plank work are the abdominals, traps, shoulders, chest and legs. After performing the plank for a while you will be surprised at how much it impacts all of the other muscle groups.

Where Can It Be Performed?

One of the biggest reasons why the plank is such a great abdominal exercise is because it can be performed almost anywhere. This is because it doesn’t require any equipment. However, using a mat or having some type of padding to place underneath your elbows is advised as it will make things much more comfortable.

Are There Any Variations Of The Plank?

There are many different variations of the plank. Each variation places emphasis on different parts of the abdominal muscles. For example if you are struggling to think of some oblique exercises you can perform the side plank. To perform this variation you need to balance on one forearm and the side of your foot. Then lift your body off the ground, engage the obliques, and try and hold the position for as long as possible. Other variations of the plank include the reverse plank, the straight arm plank and the walking plank.

Get To It!Now you know what the plank is, what muscles it works, where it can be performed and that there are many variations of it. If you are serious about strengthening your abdominal muscles and increasing your overall strength then the plank should be included in your workout routine.

Source: Healthmeup.com