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Reverse Plank

IntermediateStrengthTier T3

Lie face up with legs straight and prop yourself on both forearms. Press through your heels and forearms to lift your hips into a straight line from ankles to shoulders. You may feel the backs of your thighs, buttocks, shoulders and stomach working.

Targets: Spine Chain (Full Spine)
Muscles: Transverse Abdominis, Rectus Abdominis

Stop if

Stop the exercise if this happens. Seek advice if it persists or you are unsure.

Also stop if you notice
Shoulder, wrist or low back pain.
  • 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

1

Sets

30 sec

Reps / Time

60 sec

Rest

controlled

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Lie on your back on a mat with your legs straight and your heels on the mat.
  • Prop yourself on both forearms with your elbows under or just behind your shoulders.
  1. Woman lying face up propped on both forearms with her legs straight and hips on the mat.

    Step 1 of 3

    Lie face up with your legs straight and prop yourself on both forearms, heels on the mat.

  2. Woman holding a face-up straight-body position on her forearms and heels with her hips lifted.

    Step 2 of 3

    Press through your heels and forearms to lift your hips until your body is a straight line from ankles to shoulders.

  3. Woman lying face up propped on both forearms with her legs straight and hips on the mat.

    Step 3 of 3

    Lie face up with your legs straight and prop yourself on both forearms, heels on the mat.

What you should feel

You may feel the back of your thighs, your buttocks, your shoulders and your stomach working.

Breathing

  • Keep breathing steadily while you hold. Do not hold your breath.

Safety Information

Stop if your shoulders, wrists or low back hurt. Lower your hips with control rather than dropping them. Stop if the exercise causes pain or you become unwell. Seek appropriate professional advice about symptoms or suitability.