The Power of the PLANK!
By Dr Chloe Sandberg – CC’s Staff
The Power of the PLANK!
Forward Plank
Side Plank
Reverse Plank
Hi all!
I’m here to talk about the beauty and applicability of one of everyone’s ‘favorite’ core exercises – the plank! You might have read that and groaned, but let me tell you why planks, plus a few variations, are one of this PT’s go-to exercises for strengthening many things.
- Anyone can do a plank given the right modification. Planks can be made harder or easier depending on if you are on hands or elbows, knees or toes, elevated on a bench or chair, or even on a bed.
- You can add resistance to a plank in a few ways. Holding a dumbbell between your thighs, adding a resistance band around your wrists or knees (ask us for a demo), or even varying between being up on toes vs down on knees is a way to challenge it.
- Quick progress in muscle endurance can be noticed by everyone by using a good old fashioned timer. Start off with 3 separate 20-30 second holds of the variations written out below, completed 3-4 times per week, with the suggestion of adding 10 seconds on to each hold every week. After only 5-6 weeks you’ll likely be up to 60 second holds no problem!
Make your core, low back, legs, shoulders, basically full body stronger by adding in some planks! To learn about how CC’s can help you, check out our treatment options or give our office a call today!
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Post Author: Chloe Sandberg
Chloe is a wife, mom, and PT. She is passionate, driven, and our resident Certified Lactation Consultant at CC’s. When she isn’t in the office, she loves spending time with her husband and kiddos at their home, or taking care of her plant babies.
