Side Plank - Let's Pose Like Cleopatra And Get Fit!
Side plank is, yes, you guessed it, a little modified version of the regular version. This workout targets not only the abdominals but also the side of the abs, also known as the obliques.
Why did I say that we will pose like Cleopatra? Well, that is how the starting pose is like! You lie on your side, looking very much like the last Pharaoh of Egypt. You will see exactly what I mean in a while.
I love doing side planks! Absolutely love them. I have a weakness for exercises that work well when you keep still. Simply because you don't do anything but your muscles are working.
Sadly, the most effective exercises require us to move quite a bit. Until there is a "static exercise" breakthrough, I will do every single exercise that I talk about on Exercise For Beginners.
Let's Try The Side Plank, Cleopatra Style!
- Lie on your side, propping yourself with one elbow.
This pose is so similar to portrayals of Cleopatra, don't you agree?
- Slowly lift your hips up such that your shoulder, hip and ankle are all in a straight line.
Focus on balancing your weight on your elbow and feet. You should be able to get the hang of it after a few tries of this workout.
- Hold the position for 10 seconds.
Remember, this is just a rough gauge. You can choose to hold the position for a shorter or a longer period of time.
- Slowly lower your hip and return to the starting position again.
- Repeat this exercise 8 times.
- Now repeat the entire process 8 times, but for the other side of your body.
Things For You To Take Note Of
- Do not raise your hips too high.
Remember to make sure that your shoulders, hips and feet are in a straight line. Raising your hips too high will lower the effectiveness of the exercise, and cause unwanted strains.
- Keep your breathing normal.
Since you will be focusing on your balance and counting the seconds, be sure not to hold your breath.
- Advisable to attempt workout on a proper exercise mat.
While some might be comfortable doing it on the floor, I strongly suggest doing it on a mat. It can get quite uncomfortable for you elbows.
Also if you perspire, which you might, you tend to slip if you are not carrying out the exercise on a mat.
Little Tips To Make Your Exercise More Difficult
- Try to hold the position longer than 10 seconds.
You can challenge yourself and see how much longer you can hold each position for. Again, I remind you not to overdo it. Listen to your body.
Final Words From Azri
(sings) This workout is really, really fun!Take some time and put your exercise mat to good use. You might enjoy this exercise. A useful tip that I can offer you is to play some music while you're doing this workout to help you lose track of time.
Having relaxing music can be a great distraction, so you feel tired much later.
So give it a go and tell me how it goes.
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Return from Side Plank to Exercises For Ripped Abs
Return from Side Plank to Physical Fitness with Exercise For Beginners
