Mastering the Plank Exercise: SteamTherapy Tips

Have you tried the Plank Exercise? According to Livestrong.com, Plank Exercises not only strengthen the core, but also contribute to general well-being.

Given how intensely SteamTherapy believes in healthy living and feeling good, we felt you would enjoy learning form from Fun and Fit Fitness Experts and identical twins Alexandra Williams and Kymberly Williams-Evans how to master the plank exercise.

Planks are an extremely popular exercise, partly because you can do them almost anywhere, they don’t require equipment, and it’s rewarding to work the core.

The core is comprised of the muscles that support the spine - abdominals, sides and back. To get the most bang for your buck (or plunk for your plank), follow these plank exercise technique tips for perfect, effective form, whether you’re a planking newbie or a 5-minute plank holder!

• Place elbows directly below the shoulders
• Keep your hands relaxed. Clenched hands or fists mean that you are holding your breath
• Draw your belly button up toward the celing
• Lift the ribcage and the hips
• Maintain one long line from head to knees (or toes), keeping the tush in line (no sags or pikes) - i.e., think of forming a 'plank'
• Slide your shoulder blades toward the hips to keep a long neck

In the 1:39 minute video below, we show you four Plank Exercise options, ranging from beginning to intermediate versions of the Plank Exercise:

1. On both knees (beginner)
2. One leg long and one knee
3. Both legs long and wide
4. Feet hip distance apart (intermediate).