Are you wanting a Stronger Core? You should be Planking.

Easy tip for this week…you just have to DO IT. I LOVE the plank. It is absolutely by far one of my favorite exercises. Twice this week, I recommended to someone I was talking with to start planking. Next, I had them show me their plank. Always remember, form is extremely important with all exercises. The benefits of planking are never ending. You can plank anywhere and we can all plank. Crunches are a thing of the past and if you have any low back problems, planks are safer.

Try to plank every day and make your goal to work toward one minute a day and you will be amazed by the change in yourself. Start with 20-30 seconds and try to add 5-10 seconds as you can until you reach a minute. You will gain a stronger core, which includes your back, abs, hips and glutes. The abdominals will become hard and strong which you need to help support your back. Your deep, smaller muscles will also become stronger, which is important for back health. Your arms and shoulders will also become stronger.

Some important tips for form. These pictures are planks on your forearms, which I like. You can plank on your hands as well. These tips apply to the front and side forearm plank.

Always keep your shoulders directly over your elbows.
Keep your body in a straight line, from your head to your heels.
Don’t let your bottom stick up too much, because it will be too easy.
Don’t let your bottom, or belly, sink down toward the floor, by arching your back, this will make your back hurt.
Try to pull your belly button toward your spine and keep your abs pulled in and tight.
Keep your neck and shoulders relaxed and keep your shoulders away from your ears.
Breathe the whole time.
It should not be painful. If your back is hurting, lift your bottom slightly until it feels better.