Why should you perform planks, especially the more difficult variations? Because you don’t need a lot of space, expensive equipment, or a gym membership to perform this efficient full-body exercise. Each movement also causes your center of gravity to change, forcing your arms, back, glutes, and abdominals to support your body.
This 10-minute, five-move plank sequence, which features a number of modifications on the traditional plank position, was created by licensed yoga instructor and fitness trainer Stacey Lei Krauss, the founder and originator of the Cardio Yoga program.
Simply clear a place on the floor to begin. You won’t even have to touch a set of weights or (if you’re like Krauss, who prefers to go barefoot) lace up your sneakers to achieve stronger core muscles, improved balance, and a true sense of accomplishment if you complete the entire cycle three times per week while taking 30 seconds between each move to roll your wrists and shoulder.
Benefits:
Planks are crucial because they are fantastic for your core, and a strong core equals a strong body, according to Langhans.
Your risk of back pain might be decreased by having a solid core. According to Langhans, “Your core stabilizes your spine, so if your core is weak, your spine needs to work harder to complete activities.” You could eventually experience back problems or pain if your core isn’t working hard enough and your back is working too hard. Because of this, your trainer will probably include some core-strengthening and stabilizing activities in your sessions if you are experiencing back pain.
Similar to how planks encourage you to stand up straight, which is crucial when you’re lifting weights. According to Langhans, “the proper upright standing stance is a proper plank on the floor.” Tall chest, lowered rib cage, engaged core, relaxed shoulders away from the ears, and natural spinal curvature without excessive low-back extension. Good posture is fantastic for sitting and standing, but Langhans argues that when engaging in physical activity, it’s crucial to be able to stand in a supported position to protect your spine. A good plank teaches that.
The core stability you may develop through planks is essentially a precursor to all other sorts of more sophisticated movement, according to Peel, who also claims that core stability is the basis of many athletic moves. Planks can therefore assist you advance in your fitness regimen and try harder and heavier things.
