What is the best ab exercise? What’s the best way to tone every angle of your stomach, including your obliques?
It’s called…a plank. What is a plank? Quite simply, it’s an isometric exercise for the abs (where you perform one action, holding still for the entire duration of the move). You may be learning the plank exercise for the first time or you may already use it regularly in your workouts. But guess what? Most trainers consider the plank to be one of the most effective abs exercises.
Not only does it strengthen and firm your abs, but also works all the core muscles — the back, hips, etc.
Body Parts: Core
Equipment: Mat
Reps: 1 Minute
How To Perform The Move
Place hands on the floor, wrists or elbows aligned under shoulders, and extend legs back so your body is straight from head to heels. Another version of this is a side plank (shown in photo), where the right hand is on the floor, aligned under shoulders, while the left arm rests on the thigh, the body is lifted off the floor, and the legs are stacked one on top of the other. Hold your position for 30 seconds to 1 minute. If performing the side plank, hold the position for 30 seconds, then switch to the other side (with the left hand on the floor, and the right arm resting on the thigh).
