Thursday, June 24, 2010

New ways to "plank"

What's a plank? Other than wood, of course. It's a Pilates move (that's how I learned it at least) that tones your abs without the boring sit-ups (works better and faster, too.) The standard plank is to lean on your elbows and stretch your legs out so you are balanced on your forearms and toes. You are, in effect, a plank. Hold for 30 seconds keeping your abs taut.

Variations:
Do a "boy-style" push up and when your arms are extended, lift one leg straight up a few inches, clinching your butt-muscles as well as your abs. Lower and repeat with other leg. Tones it ALL. (source: Health Mag, Oct. 2009, p. 20)

Do a standard plank, then twist your hips (just hips) to the left as you exhale, then back to center with inhale, then to the left with exhale. Repeat series as many times as you want. (Source: Health Magazine, March, 2010)  - I read that one in the Pierz library today so I had to recall the date by memory.) 

I'll be trying these out this week, how about you? :)

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