Bodyweight exercises are gaining ground in the fitness world. We love using our own force to create resistance against the bag with every punch and kick, and we also love planking! We love planks so much that we dedicate a whole month to them each year.
“Thanks and Planks is our annual event each November to do a quick gut check when you need it most.”
A tight core not only looks good, but feels good too. Follow these steps to help you rock your planks all month.
- Start with good form. Begin in a plank position with your forearms and toes on the floor. Keep your torso straight and contracted, forming a straight line from your ears to your toes with no sagging in your body. Your head is relaxed and should be looking at the floor.
- Practice makes perfect. Try planking in front of a mirror to check your form. Like anything, a proper foundation is important and this will increase your time and results.
- Baby steps. Holding planks while doing mini-sets is really beneficial as well for increasing your times. In our monthly challenge, we encourage people to build their time in 10-20 second increments. Start small and build your time as your strength allows. Doing mini-sets helps build your stamina, so when the time comes you will be ready to rise to the challenge.
- Don’t watch the clock. The seconds seem to take longer when you watch them tick, which makes your body tense and your mind agonizes over the pain. Stay relaxed, breathe and distract your mind while planking. You will be surprised at how fast time seems to pass.
Find a club near you to join our 30 days of Thanks and Planks challenge. You can join in anytime in November or anytime in your life when you’re ready!
