"When a client comes in looking for a great ab exercise, they expect me to give them something they've never seen before," Stan Dutton, an NASM-certified trainer and head coach for Ladder, said. "But the basics are go-to moves for a reason! Planks are prime for abdominal training. Another great benefit is that exercises like the plank have been proven to help keep the lower back healthy and pain-free."
- Start on the floor, resting on your forearms and knees.
- Step your feet out one at a time, coming into a plank position.
- Contract your abs to prevent your booty from sticking up or sinking. Your spine should be parallel to the floor, with your abs pulling toward the ceiling.
- Hold for 20 to 30 seconds, Stan says. You can work your way up to one minute as you get stronger.
