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Side plank

A side-lying hold on one forearm that strengthens your obliques and the muscles along the side of your hips.

IntermediateMatLow impactSuggested: 20 sec per side

How to do it

  1. Lie on your side with your bottom elbow directly under your shoulder and your legs stacked.
  2. Lift your hips until your body forms a straight line from head to feet.
  3. Reach your top arm toward the ceiling or rest your hand on your hip.
  4. Hold while breathing steadily, then switch sides.

Work one side, then switch. Timed sets run once per side.

Form tips

  • Push the floor away with your forearm so your shoulder does not sink.
  • Keep your hips stacked and lifted.
  • Bend your bottom knee to the floor for an easier version.

Muscles worked

Neck: not workedTraps: not workedShoulders: moderateChest: not workedBiceps: not workedForearms: not workedAbs: moderateObliques: strongHip flexors: not workedOuter hips: not workedQuads: not workedInner thighs: not workedCalves: not workedFrontNeck: not workedTraps: not workedShoulders: moderateUpper back: not workedLats: not workedLower back: not workedTriceps: not workedForearms: not workedOuter hips: not workedGlutes: moderateHamstrings: not workedCalves: not workedBack
LightModerateStrong
ObliquesAbsShouldersGlutes

Plank variations

More core & abs