The WEIRD Side of Planking For Weight Loss

Are Planks Good For Weight Loss? Yes, but… For this video, I`m gonna share with you how planks help lose weight and the not-so-pleasant side of this popular core strengthening exercise.

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In a nutshell:

When it comes to losing fat and developing a strong core, there`s only so much progress you could get from countless reps of sit-ups and crunches.
But first off, how many calories do planks burn?
Are there different plank variations that can highly boost your weight loss progress?

By the end of this video you`ll have learned a secret planking technique that will double the calories you burn whilst planking.
The plank has rightfully earned its place as one of the best core exercises because of its intensity and ability to stimulate the abs.

In comparison to crunches and sit-ups, planks place lesser pressure on the lower back muscle since the spine should be maintained in a neutral position when planking.

And if performed correctly, planks engage your whole midsection area, otherwise known as the core.
A strong core leads to improved athletic performance and enhanced body balance.

And being an isometric exercise, planks allow you to train your core without moving.

Among the variety of benefits of plank, weight loss is one.
Plank As A Weight Loss Tool The plank is a full-body exercise.
Because of the simultaneous engagement of multiple muscles, they`re good for weight loss.

When it comes to calorie burn, a plank isn`t at the top of the list of exercises that burn the most amount of calories.
Nevertheless, the plank burns approximately 2 to 5 calories per minute, based on body weight.

And what planks don`t offer through calorie burning they absolutely more than make up for by toning and strengthening your midsection.
The amount of calories you burn while planking is based on several factors including body weight, metabolism rate, and muscle-to-fat ratio.
Just take note that the more repetitions you do, the more calories you will burn.

In my case, since I have a high muscle-to-fat ratio, I burn more calories during rest periods in between plank reps.
As such, those variations may burn more calories too.
Standard Plank Performing with your hands is the traditional position for planks.

Beginners, individuals with a very weak core, or those who just recently recovered from a lower back injury can benefit the most from this plank variation.

To do a standard plank: Kneel on the floor and place your hands on the floor.
Your hands should be directly under your shoulders and your fingers pointed straight.

Your body must be in a straight position throughout the entire exercise.
These are: Cons - Places a lot of stress on your wrists Because you`re doing planks with your hands and wrists you have to bear a huge portion of your weight.

- Burns your shoulders more Standard planks require more shoulder stability than forearm planks or planks on your elbows.
I knew someone who had a strong core yet had weak shoulders.
Because of it, he couldn`t hold a plank with his hands as long as he could hold a forearm plank.

The forearm plank is also great for heavier people because their hands and wrists don`t need to be strained in holding up as much weight.
Second, raise yourself by pushing your forearms into the floor and pushing yourself through your toes.

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