Get Better at Doing Planks

Tips for The Novice to Get Better at Doing Plank


Plank is one of the exercises that assists in building tremendous strength. You can achieve this at your convenience, either from the office or home. The plank is an excellent way of strengthening your core. If it’s your first time in the fitness world and you are willing to begin a strength workout, then plank is the best option for you.

When it comes to doing planks, alignment is the key.

You can start by using a piece of furniture; this will assist in avoiding pressure on your joints. Other platforms you can use for plank exercise include mats or floors. Here are tips for you to get better at doing planks as a novice.

  • Align your hands under your soldiers while spreading your fingers wide
  • Now press through the shoulders as you curve the top part of your back; this will go a long way in strengthening your chest area and protecting your shoulders
  • When lengthening your spine, lift the knees above the floor, and align your legs parallel to the ceiling. 
  • Engage your thighs while bending your elbows to protect your joints from unnecessary pressure
  • Stacking your heels above the ball-mounts of the feet will help avoid toe joint strain
  • Always tuck hip bones towards your belly button; this will go a long way in increasing your abdominal engagement
  • Finally, gaze down and keep your spine straight while lengthening your neck. Push away from the ground to engage your glutes

Getting Started

Initially, you can hold the plank for 5 seconds, then prolong it to 10 seconds with time.

You will increase the length of your hold as you continue to work out and become stronger. Within a short time, you will be an expert in doing planks, and you will even hold onto 10 minutes or up to your target time frame.

Why You Should Do Planks

Planks assist in building stability and strength in your entire core. It targets external and internal obliques, rectus, erector spinae muscles, and transverse abdominals. Typically, a plank can offer you a flat tummy.

If you incorporate planks into your daily workout, it will assist you in building more than just solid abs. Planks are not just ab exercises; they are full-body exercises that tone your back, shoulders, and legs. 

How Often Should You Do Plank as A Beginner

There are no exact times that you should do planks as a novice. However, this solely depends on your body.

Listen to the body and check when your muscles are exhausted.

You may realize that your back is somehow weak, and your muscles might start feeling tight and sore if you do too many planks at the beginning stages.

As a beginner, you are only starting to build your core strength. Hence it’s advisable to plank for a short time and often. Typically, you don’t have to do planks more than three times a day.

Plank is a great exercise that is strength building and beginner-friendly.

If you focus and use the proper procedure, it’s pretty easy to achieve the desired outcome. In a short time, you will notice changes in your body. Engage in planks now to meet your fitness goals and have fun.