4 Reasons Why Planks Should Be a Thing You Do This Holiday Season (and beyond)!

1. It’s a great full-body stabilizing exercise. Though there is an emphasis on the core. You will definitely feel the plank working your shoulders, back, quads and if you’re doing it right, that booty should be engaged too!
2. It’s easy to modify and build-up to. Unlike the push-up, the plank is a stabilizing exercise, which means it’s a good starting place for modifications. How might you modify the plank? Well, just like the push-up, you drop to your knees and hold the position while breathing (It’s common to hold our breath). The plank can be done either on your hands or forearms depending on if you have wrist issues.
3. Progressions are a fun challenge. Progressing a plank can be anything from transitioning from your knees to a full plank, to adding lower body or upper body (or both) movement. Once you’ve nailed down the core stabilizing muscles and they know their job, you can safely add in movement to take your plank to the next level. If you enjoy physical challenges, these progressions can be really fun!
4. You’ll notice a difference quickly with consistency. While most exercises take several weeks to notice the payoffs, planking (much like push-ups) builds up at a pace that keeps you excited! Of course, this is with consistent practice. Your time with holding a plank will increase and you will feel an overall increase of strength. Plus when you add movement to your plank, you’ll really level up your workout.

Want to add some fun to your holiday gatherings?
Challenge everyone to a plank contest. Make sure everyone knows how to plank properly and know the modifications they may need (you can always refer back to this blog or my instructional video). Then set a timer and see who can last the longest without breaking form. Fun fact, my grandfather was able to hold a plank for almost 3 minutes when he was 81. If he can do it, you can do it!