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Abs

Plank: how to do it right

The plank holds your body straight on your forearms and toes. It strengthens your whole core without moving.

Main muscle
Abs
Also works
Glutes, Shoulders, Lower back
Equipment
Body weight
Level
Beginner
Plank: start position
Start position
Plank: end position
End position

Step by step

  1. Place your forearms on the floor with your elbows under your shoulders.
  2. Straighten your legs and rest on your toes.
  3. Make a straight line from head to heels, squeezing glutes and abs.
  4. Hold, breathing normally.

Tip: Three good 30-second planks beat one 2-minute plank with sagging hips.

Common mistakes

Sagging hips

If your hips drop, your lower back suffers. Squeeze your glutes.

Hips too high

Raising your hips takes work off your abs. Aim for a straight line.

Holding your breath

Breathe normally.

Sets and reps

Guide ranges. Start with a weight where the last rep is hard but your technique holds.

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3–420–40 s with added weight1.5 min
Solid core330–60 s1 min
Beginner2–315–30 s1 min

In GymOrbita you log every set and the app suggests the weight for your next session based on what you did last time.

Alternatives

If the machine is busy or you want a variation:

FAQ

How long should I hold?

30 to 60 seconds with good form is enough. When it gets easy, add weight or try harder variations.

General technique information, not a substitute for professional advice. If you have an injury or pain, check with a doctor or physiotherapist first.

Add plank to your routine

GymOrbita has this exercise with its animation: log the weight and reps of every set and track your progress. Free.