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Side Plank

BeginnerBalanceTier T2

Lateral core and hip stability exercise in plank position on one arm.

Targets: Hip
Muscles: Obliques

Stop if

Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.

This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

  • Works at home
  • Works at the gym

none

Home Options

  • bodyweight

Dosage

3

Sets

20 sec

Reps / Time

30 sec

Rest

15-45 sec holds each side

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Lie on side with forearm on floor under shoulder
  • Stack feet or stagger them for more stability
  • Top arm on hip or reaching up
  1. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 1 of 4

    Lift hips off floor

  2. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 2 of 4

    Create straight line from head to feet

  3. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 3 of 4

    Hold position while breathing

  4. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 4 of 4

    Lower with control

Breathing

  • Breathe steadily throughout
  • Don't hold breath

Form Cues

  • Hips up - don't sag
  • Keep body in straight line
  • Stack shoulders over elbow
  • Breathe throughout

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Hips sagging toward floor
  • Hips piking up
  • Rolling forward or backward
  • Holding breath

Safety Information

Keep shoulder over elbow to protect joint.

Progressions

Top leg raise, longer holds, add hip dips

Regressions

Knees bent (modified), shorter holds