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Plank

Abdominals Beginner Strength Body Only
Plank Plank
Equipment
Body Only
Level
Beginner
Force
Static
Mechanic
Isolation
Instructions
  1. Get into a prone position on the floor, supporting your weight on your toes and your forearms. Your arms are bent and directly below the shoulder.
  2. Keep your body straight at all times, and hold this position as long as possible. To increase difficulty, an arm or leg can be raised.
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Plank work?

Plank primarily targets the Abdominals. This makes it an effective strength exercise for building abdominals development.

Do I need equipment for the Plank?

No. The Plank is a bodyweight exercise that requires no equipment. It can be performed anywhere with enough space.

Is the Plank suitable for beginners?

Yes. The Plank is a beginner-friendly exercise. Focus on proper form before adding weight or intensity. It's a great movement to include early in your training.

Is the Plank a compound or isolation exercise?

The Plank is an isolation exercise that focuses on a single joint and muscle group. Isolation exercises are useful for targeting specific muscles, correcting imbalances, and adding focused volume. They are typically performed after compound movements in a workout.

How many sets and reps should I do for the Plank?

For strength, aim for 3-5 sets of 5-8 reps with heavier weight. For muscle building (hypertrophy), try 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps at a moderate weight. For endurance, use lighter weight and perform 2-3 sets of 15-20 reps.

What are good alternatives to the Plank?

Good alternatives include the 3/4 Sit-Up, Ab Crunch Machine, Ab Roller. These exercises target similar muscle groups (Abdominals) and can be substituted based on available equipment or training preference.

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