Side Plank – The Best Abs Workout You Should Never Miss

Admit it. We all are huge fans of Plank. Although we have discussed the secret tips and benefits of plank before, certainly we should not just focus on one type of core exercises. Instead, side plank is an often overlooked abdominal workout but comes with several benefits.

Therefore, we are going to talk about one of the best abs workout – Side Plank, that you should never ever miss in your workout routine.

Why Side Plank?

I know there is nothing wrong if you never do a side plank. But, you might end up in ignoring the often weak muscle of our side torso called the obliques and quadratus lumborum. The obliques are located next to your abs on both sides of your body. The quadratus lumborum is part of the posterior abdominal wall. They both play the prominent role in preventing back pain. People who have poor muscle strength and endurance in their lower backs are more likely to develop chronic lower back problems than those who have good one. Nevertheless, the side plank is worth getting a try as it has several benefits for us.

Benefits of Side Plank?

1. Core Strength

Side plank works your core to a huge extent. It primarily strengthens the obliques,however, this is a full-body exercise that also trains the muscles in your hips, chest and shoulders. During this form, it is important to really engage your core to keep your hips from sagging towards the floor.

2. Strengthens Arms and Wrists

It requires the balance from one arm, thus this is a great move for strengthening your shoulders, wrists, and arms.

3. Strengthens Legs

Side Plank is really a full-body pose. While keeping your hip upright to engage the core. The hips and legs have no exception to work!

4. Improves Balance

If you have tried before a side plank, you would know that it is a not-so-easy balancing workout. However, the more it challenges you, the more you build strength in your arms and wrists, and even makes it a great prep pose for other balancing workout.this

How To Do A Side Plank?

1. Start on your side with your feet together. Bend your elbow and one forearm directly below your shoulder.
2. Contract your core and raise your hips until your body is in a straight line from head to feet.
3. Hold the position without letting your hips drop for 20-30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.
4. To make the exercise harder, straighten your supporting arm with the palm flat on the mat. You can also elevate your feet on an unstable surface such as a Bosu ball for added difficulty.
5. If it is too easy, try to hold for 1 minute. 

If you have any doubt or issue during your workout, feel free to contact us for telephysio. Also, check out our instagram page for more useful tips and videos. Lastly, I hope this post has been useful to you. Stay safe!