Mountain Climber
The mountain climber plank variation is a more intense way to add a little extra challenge to your plank workout. This exercise works not only your core muscles but also your arms and shoulders. To do the mountain climber plank variation, start in a standard plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders. Then, bring one knee up toward your chest, keeping your hips level. Return to the starting position and repeat with the other leg. You can make this exercise more challenging by adding a push-up after each knee raise. Or, for an even greater challenge, try doing the exercise on an unstable surface like a Bosu ball or balance disc. By adding instability to the equation, you’ll not only work your core muscles harder, but you’ll also help improve your balance and coordination.
Plank To Pike
The plank to pike is a great exercise for strengthening the core and shoulders while also getting a good stretch in the hamstrings. To do the plank to pike, start in a forearm plank position with your elbows directly beneath your shoulders and your feet hip-width apart. Engage your core and press down through your forearms to lift your hips up into the air, coming into a downward dog position. From here, bend your knees and begin to walk your feet toward your hands. As you do this, allow your hips to drop between your arms as you enter a pike position. Return to the starting position and repeat.
Reverse Plank
If you want something different that will still engage your core give the reverse plank a try. To begin, sit on the ground with your legs extended and your palms flat on the ground behind you. Next, lift your hips off the ground so that your body forms straight from your head to your heels. Be sure to keep your shoulders down and your core engaged. Hold this position for 30 seconds to 1 minute. For an added challenge, try lifting one leg off the ground for an additional 30 seconds. Reverse planks are a great way to improve strength and balance. They can also be performed anywhere, making them a convenient exercise for busy people on the go. Just be sure to practice good form to avoid injury.
Plank Walkout
The plank walkout is the final variation to try that will tone your arms and legs while also challenging your core. To do the exercise, start in a push-up position with your feet together. Slowly walk your hands forward until you are in a low plank position. Then, walk your hands back to the push-up position and repeat. You can make the exercise more challenging by placing your feet on an elevated surface or adding a jump at the end of the movement. Plank walkouts are a great way to add some variety to your workout routine and are especially helpful for those who need extra help with leg strength.
Give Some Of The Best Plank Variations A Try!
There you have it! These are just a few plank variations you can try to improve your core strength. Mix things up and challenge yourself with different exercises to avoid boredom and keep your body guessing. With creativity, you can turn the simple plank into an incredibly effective workout that will tone your entire body. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start planking!
