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6 reasons not to underestimate the power of the plank

Sometimes, less is more - especially when it comes to fitness. When our head’s in the game and we’re focused on sculpting our bodies, so many thoughts are simultaneously running through our minds. ‘Is my form, right?

 How many reps should I be doing? Is this weight heavy enough? Don’t forget to breathe!’ We overcomplicate so many elements of fitness and develop these complicated routines that may appear to be more effective than they actually are. But in truth, many of the most advantageous exercises are so simple, a prime example being the plank.

There are many variations of the plank, but the most familiar way to perform the bodyweight exercise is by lying on your stomach, and then lifting your body up with the support of your elbows and toes, all while keeping your back straight. The goal is to hold this position for as long as possible, which is easier said than done. You’ll never look at planking the same way after discovering how beneficial they truly are.

1. Strengthening your core

Planking contracts so many of your muscles all together, and increases core strength immensely. Your obliques, the muscles that make up your six pack, and your core stabilizing muscles are all working in unison to tone your abs. The harder you shake, the better it’s working.

2. Increasing metabolism 

As your muscle strength improves and your muscle mass builds, your metabolism will also be faster. Raising your muscle mass causes your metabolic heart rate too become higher, which in result will increase the number of calories you burn. 

3. Improving muscle definition 

Your entire body will become more defined the more you plank, as you’re strengthening the muscles in your abdomen, shoulders, chest, legs and back, while also performing an isometric hold. All of these actions will build lean muscles and help you tone.

4. Perfecting your posture

When you’re focused on holding your core and keeping your back straight, your posture will naturally improve to. Your back, chest, shoulders, abs and neck will adjust to be straighter and more aligned, so inevitably, your posture will improve and you’ll be much healthier, and carry yourself better.

5. Boosting your balance 

The entire point of the plank is to keep your body as stable as possible, rather than shaking when put under pressure. Inevitably, your balance and coordination are bound to improve as you train your body to do this. If you have pain in your back, this will surely decrease as you won’t be overextending your back muscles if your core and balance is more aligned. 

6. Reducing body pain

There are so many added benefits of planking that you’ll experience after the exercise is complete. It will improve your bone and joint health, as this position is strictly performed through bodyweight. You’re not putting added tension on your body; you’re sampling using what you already have. This is also a stabilizing move, so your joints aren’t affected as intensely as they would be during cardio. Also, planking develops new living bone tissue, and increases your joint circulation. In terms of your overall wellness, like any other physical activity, planking yields endorphins. Your stress will be relieved, your mood will elevate, and your body will feel motivation, strength, and joy in the challenge. 

Got a fitness question? Email Sebastien at  [email protected] for his expert opinion!

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