Exercise 1: Plank With Leg Lift If this core and butt exercise is too difficult, skip to the next slide for a modification of Exercise 1. Start in a low plank position. Your shoulders should be directly over your elbows with your back flat, hips level, and core pulled in toward your spine. Squeeze your glutes to slowly lift your right foot up toward the ceiling. Keep your hips parallel to the floor and don't allow your lower back to arch. Lower your right foot to the floor to return to the starting position. Repeat with your left foot. That's one rep. Repeat for 30 seconds. Image Source: Cindy Yu