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Exercise guide
Side Plank
A lateral plank variation targeting the obliques and lateral core.
What this exercise works
- Muscles
- obliques · transverse abdominis · gluteus medius · rectus abdominis
- Goals
- endurance · strength
- Equipment
- No equipment
- Category
- Strength
- Difficulty
- beginner
Demonstration
Step 1
How to perform the movement
- Lie on your side with your forearm on the floor, elbow under your shoulder.
- Lift your hips off the floor, forming a straight line from head to feet.
- Hold the position, keeping your core tight.
- Breathe steadily.
- Repeat on both sides.
Technique cues and common mistakes
- Don't let your top shoulder roll forward during the hold.
- Push the floor away through the forearm rather than sinking into the shoulder.
- Keep your head in line with your spine.