The abdominal plank is one of the greatest exercises in the core workout arsenal. The problem is: it's not just a core workout, it's a workout for the entire anterior chain. Everything on the front of the body is fighting gravity, therefore the front side of the body is statically activated.
Your shoulders will burn, your chest will remain tight, your midsection should be a brick wall, and your thighs should remain tight as well to prevent your knees from bending and breaking form.
Planks can be performed a variety of ways, but the standard plank will place you on just your forearms and toes, hovering above the ground as straight as can be. Your forearms should be placed directly below your collar bone or neck, don't rest on them! Have shoulder issues? Perform the plank in the upright pushup position. Want a challenge? Place your hands or forearms up further from you to increase tension on the midsection. Want more challenge? In the standard position, jump your feet together as a unit left and right a few inches.
The plank is a great test of endurance that is measurable. Start by trying to hold it for 20 seconds and then try to increase by 5 seconds a day. Don't forget to breathe!
Don't just think of the plank as a stomach exercise, it can be a great asset to a full body routine.
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