"This is one of my favorite moves, as you're targeting your obliques while not putting additional pressure on your spine by crunching," says NASM-certified personal trainer Holly Roser.
How to Strengthen Your Core With Side Planks:
- Begin by lying on your left side. Bring your left elbow directly under your left shoulder. Place your right foot on top or in front of your left foot.
- Lift your hips up into a side elbow plank, balancing on your elbow and the side of your left foot. Make sure your hips are in line with your shoulders and feet, and try not to collapse into your left shoulder; think about making space between your shoulder and neck.
- Hold this position. Start with 15-30 seconds, and build up to one minute as you get stronger.
