Plank Lateral Raise

The Plank Lateral Raise is a fantastic compound exercise that targets multiple muscle groups in your body, making it an excellent addition to your workout routine. This challenging move primarily focuses on strengthening your core muscles, particularly the rectus abdominis and transverse abdominis, while also engaging your shoulders, arms, and glutes. To perform the Plank Lateral Raise, you start in a traditional plank position, with your hands directly beneath your shoulders and your body forming a straight line from head to heels. From the plank position, you then lift one arm to the side, maintaining a stable core and keeping your body in alignment. The goal is to engage your shoulder muscles as you raise and lower your arm in a controlled manner while balancing on your other arm and feet. This exercise not only improves your core strength and stability but also helps to develop shoulder strength and stability, which is crucial for optimal upper body function. Additionally, the Plank Lateral Raise challenges your balance and coordination, requiring you to engage your deep abdominal muscles and maintain proper body alignment throughout the movement. If you're looking to enhance your overall fitness, strengthen your core, and develop stronger shoulders, incorporating the Plank Lateral Raise into your workout routine can be highly beneficial. Remember, it's important to execute this exercise with proper form and start with lighter weights or even bodyweight variations if you're new to the movement. Push yourself, but always listen to your body and do what feels right for you. Happy planking!

Instructions

• Start in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders and your body in a straight line from head to toe.
• Engage your core and lift your right arm out to the side, keeping it parallel to the floor.
• At the same time, lift your left leg out to the side, also parallel to the floor.
• Hold this position for a brief pause, making sure to keep your hips and shoulders as level as possible.
• Lower your right arm and left leg back to the starting position.
• Repeat the movement on the other side by lifting your left arm and right leg.
• Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions or time.

Tips & Tricks

• Focus on engaging your core muscles throughout the entire exercise.
• Maintain proper form by keeping your body in a straight line from head to toe.
• Start with lighter weights and gradually increase the load as you progress.
• Control the movement and avoid swinging or using momentum to lift the weights.
• Breathe evenly and avoid holding your breath during the exercise.
• Ensure that your shoulders are relaxed and not hunched up towards your ears.
• Keep a slight bend in your elbows throughout the exercise to avoid strain.
• Incorporate a variety of plank variations and lateral raise techniques to challenge different muscle groups.
• Listen to your body and modify the exercise if you experience any pain or discomfort.
• Combine the plank lateral raise with other compound exercises for a more comprehensive workout.