Challenges
Try This Today
- Watch the video above to learn the proper way to perform the Plank Series of exercises from Denise Austin.
- Get in plank position (on hands and toes), and hold for 10 seconds. Get in low plank position (on elbows and toes), and hold for 10 seconds.
- Keep your abs strong and tightened with your back straight.
- Shoulders should be directly above the hands/elbows.
- Adapt the exercise to suit your level of fitness. For example, beginners may only be able to hold the position for a few seconds, or may do only the low plank until strength builds.
Why
Planks are a challenging but powerful exercise to help strengthen and tone your core, especially your ab muscles. This kind of static isometric exercise, in which you hold a position until your muscles tire, may help keep blood pressure in check, an important goal for supporting brain health.
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