Side Planks

I have blogged about the wonderful core exercise called the "Plank". (see blog entry on 2/27/09). This exercise can also be done for the side abdominals, called the obliques.

Begin as you would when executing the plank but work the right and left oblique by stabilizing yourself on your forearm and sides of your feet and holding this position. Be careful not to allow the hip closest to the floor to bow. Make sure the entire body is in perfect alignment and steady as you breath and relax while holding yourself still. If you can do this well, incorporate your other arm pointing upward as you hold yourself up as in a "star" shape.

This core exercise, as with the regular "plank' can be done on the floor or by utilizing a bench that is heavy and not going to move as you perform the exercise. Try to increase your time holding the exercise each time you execute this core exercise. Keep in mind that so much of this stabilizing hold is mental as well as physical. Try to imagine yourself in a peaceful and relaxing place as you hold yourself. Think "I am strong and calm and stable."