Are You Making These Plank Mistakes?
By Sara Butler
A plank is a simple exercise that can have a huge impact on your strength and your overall health. No matter how long you can hold a plank, certain things can make the time you practice this move way less effective. These plank mistakes can even render all that energy you invest pointless because, if you don't have the right form, then you're not going to get what you need from it. Here are some of the biggest plank mistakes to be on the lookout for to help you find your perfect plank form.
Plank Mistake No. 1: Arching Your Back
A common mistake made in the world of planks is the arching of the lower back. That's because doing a plank really works your core muscles. When those start to grow tired, then your midsection may start to sag toward the ground a bit and cause your back to arch.
This mistake can have serious consequences and put you at risk for injury since it puts a lot of stress and strain on the lower back. Not to mention it reduces any of the benefits of strengthening your core when you're not doing the exercise correctly.
To address this issue, make sure your back is straight and your pelvis is tucked. When you start to get tired, think about tilting your hips toward the chest to help prevent it from happening.
Plank Mistake No. 2: Don't Look Up
Looking up will wreak havoc on your plank form if you try to do it while in position. The key to doing a plank the right way is to keep your entire body in a straight line, all the way from your head to your toes. If you glance up, then you break that straight line and throw your alignment off.
To fix this issue, keep your head down and your focus on your hands or straight in front of you. This will help you from putting stress and strain on your neck and shoulders and keep your form right.
Plank Mistake No. 3: Going Overboard
You may want to see how long you can hold a plank but make sure you don't go too long. No matter how strong you are, you will get tired if you hold a plank for too long and that can impact your form. Remember, planks are only good for you if you can hold the form. If you can't, then you may be doing more harm than good. Don't do planks for more than a few minutes at a time.
Planks are good for you as long as you avoid mistakes!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Shiloh, Ill.