Planks are one of the core exercises that are simultaneously beloved and hated. It may look easy, but it’s more complex than most other exercises, with no crunching, pushing, or squatting involved. What is the optimal duration of holding a plank to see results? Here’s what the experts had to say.
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Planks: What Are They?
Planks aren’t all about abs, even though they’re typically considered core exercises. Kelsey Wells, the Sweat Trainer, and creator of the PWR Workout, say planks strengthen your entire body by stabilizing your core. When teaching planks, any or all of these muscles are often cued, so planks are generally a pretty comprehensive full-body workout!”
Do Planks Come in Variations?
Peloton Instructor Selena Samuela points out several variations to the plank, usually performed in a pushup position, hands down, keeping your back straight and rigid. There are forearm planks, side planks, and reverse planks, all similar to the original plank.
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What Is The Ideal Length Of Time To Hold A Plank?
Despite the temptation to join in a social media plank challenge, don’t get too caught up in the numbers. Make it more of a personal challenge than a competition. Wells notes that the length of time you can hold a plank depends on your strength and fitness level. Therefore, there is no ideal time for having a plank. Maintaining form while holding a plank long enough to challenge yourself is essential.
Conclusion
Quality is much more important than quantity. It doesn’t matter whether you are a yogi or a fan of HIIT. Planks are an excellent exercise for strengthening your core. Ensure you do your planks correctly and not the wrong way for an extended period if you want to reap the most rewards.