PLANKS.
I used to DESPISE planks. To me, it was the LONGEST minute of my life each and every time I executed one. I would slowly watch the time move as I whined. BUT, I kept doing them. Now, I make it a point to try to plank nearly every day of the week. Why? Because I now find them enjoyable. It literally takes two minutes of your entire day to complete 2 one-minute planks. You spend more time than that on social media. I also know the benefits of doing planks and I thought I would share them with you to possibly encourage you to stay motivated about continuing them.
-Planks come in various positions. Beginners or those needing to modify for medical/health reasons, can plank with their knees on the floor. You can even have your knees off of the ground and your forearms on the ground, or just be completely off of the ground aside from your hands and feet. There really is no “wrong” position for the plank, just make sure that your form is correct and your body is in a straight line.
-It works more than just your core. Most of your body is engaged for the entire time you are planking. It also works your arms, your legs, and even your booty. If you want to call it a “one stop shop workout”, then do so.
-Your posture is improved. Since you are having to be in a completely straight line, your posture when you are standing and even sitting will improve. You won’t slouch as much and your back won’t be hurting as much because you are aligning your vertebrae as they should be.
-It improves your mental focus. During the entire duration of your plank, you are having to focus on completing it with the correct form.
-You are in a challenge with yourself and no one else. Once you are comfortable doing the plank, continue adding on seconds to challenge yourself to see how long your body and mind are able to hold it. You’d be surprised at how long you are able to go.
-They can be done ANYWHERE at ANYTIME! If you are waiting for a load in the dryer to finish drying, why not do a plank? Or when you are waiting for dinner to be done? Or before you take a shower? Or before you go to bed at night?
See?!?! Planking really isn’t an awful ordeal once you think about the benefits you are getting from it. Now, go ahead, and do your plank!
