The plank is a highly effective isometric exercise that burns approximately two to five calories per minute, based on body weight. Isometric exercise involves contraction of a particular group of muscles in a static position.
What planks don't provide through calorie burning they more than make up for by toning and strengthening your core, the area of the body which encompasses your:
Planks also target the muscles in your arms and legs.
The amount of calories you burn while planking depends on several factors. These include body weight, metabolism rate, and muscle-to-fat ratio.
The more repetitions you do, the more calories you will burn. If you have a high muscle-to-fat ratio, you will also burn more calories during rest periods between plank reps.
Several plank variations are more challenging than the basic plank. These may burn more calories as well.
When done properly, the plank will activate all of your abdominal muscles, including the following:
It's important to maintain good form while doing a plank not only to get maximum results, but also to protect your lower back. Doing a 20-second plank while maintaining proper form is more effective for building muscle than doing a one-minute plank if your body is in the wrong position.
No equipment is needed for a plank, although you may be more comfortable working out on a mat rather than carpet or hard flooring. Here is a video followed by instructions for how to do a basic plank and several variations:
If you feel your form slipping at any time, lower your body down to rest. Don't let your lower back sag or your hips rise up.
To continue oxygenating your muscles, remember to keep breathing while holding the plank position, as well as during rest periods.
To increase the plank's difficulty, effectiveness, and calorie-burning potential, try these variations:
In addition to tightening your abdominals, the plank has multiple benefits, including the following:
The plank is a good addition to an overall exercise regimen, which should also include cardio activities. Cardio exercise typically burns more calories during the activity than strength exercises.
Choose activities you enjoy so that you'll stick with them. Things to try include:
Consulting with a fitness coach or personal trainer can help ensure you do planks and other exercises the right way. A pro can also work with you on setting realistic goals. You may want to see a personal trainer if you:
Working with a trainer can provide a layer of safety. You can look for a trainer by ZIP code online.
The plank is a highly effective abdominal-strengthening exercise. For most people, it burns between two and five calories per minute.
Planks increase muscle and boost metabolism, so they help to sustain higher levels of caloric burn during rest. They are an excellent addition to a well-rounded exercise routine, which also includes cardio workouts.