Dr. Malek also recommends performing side planks two to four times a week to help strengthen your core.
- Start on the ground with both hands on the floor about shoulder-width apart and with both legs extended behind you as you rest on the balls of your feet. Gently draw your ribs in to engage your core and maintain a neutral spine, ensuring that your hands are directly below your shoulders. This is your starting position.
- On an exhale, lift your right hand up off the ground and extend it upward as you simultaneously rotate your torso, opening up to the right. You should be facing the long edge of your mat. Be sure to engage your obliques (these are the ab muscles on your sides) to keep your hips elevated.
- Hold for 30 to 60 seconds, and complete a total of three sets.
