Front and side planks are amazing core strengthening exercises that work to build a strong foundation for all athletic movements. Functional core training is about power, strength and stabilization. Core muscles create a solid base for your body and can help facilitate movement.
One thing we can admit about planks, though, is that they can become very boring, especially if a regular plank is not challenging until you are holding for longer than a few minutes at a time. Adding new plank variations can work your core and make you feel the burn and be challenged much faster than your typical plank.
Functional core training is about power, strength, and stabilization. Core muscles create a solid base for your body, and can help facilitate movement. Here are 5 reasons to strengthen your core:
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Elevates sports performance
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Prevents injury and alleviates back pain
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Helps to improve your posture
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Improves your balance
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Allows you to perform daily tasks easier
Ready to get started? Try these 8 challenging plank variations:
01 Front Plank With Leg Lifts
02 Lateral Resisted Front Plank
03 Resisted Walking Plank
04 X-Plank
05 Front Plank With Shoulder Press
06 Glute Medius Side Plank
07 Glute Medius Side Plank With Press
08 Glute Medius Side Plank With Row
Really try to challenge yourself to go beyond your typical hand or forearm plank and try a few of these more difficult variations! The dynamic movements and challenging positions each one requires will help you build a stronger, more functional core.
For more workout ideas, check out the TB12 Method Book
