You Do Planks, Right?

Planks are ALL around a great total body workout. Of course they're not a workout by itself, but should be included in almost every workout you do because it hits so many target areas. This is perfect for those of you who don't have a workout regiment but want to do a few things at home. Here are all the different kinds of planks.

A great way to advance in these is to combine different forms of planks consecutively. For example, do a plank on your elbows for 10 seconds, then on your hands for 10 seconds, and then turn to a side plank for 10 seconds, then repeat. You do that with some lunges, squats, and pushups and that's a pretty darn good 'at home' workout in about 10 minutes.

Basic Elbow Plank. Don't forget that a plank means 'straight', so make sure your butt isn't hanging in the air or that your back is arched. Keep your belly button sucked into your spine to keep you straight.
(Another thing you can do to spice up your planks is to walk forward and backwards while in the plank elbow position. )

This is a moderate level side plank if you aren't ready to go onto your wrists yet.

This is another moderate level side plank. This one is easier than the one above because instead of holding yourself up, you lift your hips up in repetitions instead of continuously. Repeat lifting your hips off the ground at least 20x.

Plank on Hands.

Advanced Side Plank.

This is great for those of you who do planks often and can hold them for up to 1 minute and 1/2, yet don't want to keep going longer to strain your lower back. Using the stability ball creates 'instability' which forces you to use more muscles in your body.

I'm showing you all these different variations because there's no reason you should get sick of doing a plank because there are so many different options to choose from and they're such an essential part to getting the body you want.