Fitness

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Side plank

The side plank challenges your stability and improves core strength by working the muscles along the side of your body:

• Lie on your left side, raising yourself onto your left forearm (A). Place your left shoulder directly above your left elbow, keeping your shoulders, hips and knees in alignment. Rest your right arm along the side of your body.
• Tighten your abdominal muscles. Hold for three deep breaths. Repeat on your right side.
• For added challenge, balance on your left hand. Raise your hips off the floor and extend your right hand toward the ceiling (B). Hold for three deep breaths. Repeat on your right side.

1. Laskowski ER (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. July 12, 2011.
2. Krupa NL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. July 12, 2011.
3. Akuthota V, et al. Core stability exercise principles. Current Sports Medicine Reports. 2008;7:39.
4. Willardson JM. Core stability training: Applications to sports conditioning programs. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. 2007;21:979.