People hear the word “core” and almost automatically think “abs”. Core is not just about abs. Core training is much more about stability and the resistance to movement as opposed to the creation of it. Every movement begins with movement in the core. Therefore, the stronger your core is, the stronger everything else becomes.

When performing planks, its very easy to allow the skeleton to tent the body up, pushing back with the elbows and forward with the toes. If you find yourself sliding forwards or backwards while doing them, that’s the likely cause. Planks should be done with the elbows directly under the shoulders with the palms up to keep the weight on the forearms. Feet should be slightly parted and the abs, quads and glutes should be flexed. This last part is to ensure that muscle is holding up the body and not just bone.

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Jaime Gamache M.Ed., CSCS, is Owner and Head Strength Coach of The Way Human Performance Institute ( www.thewayhpi.com and www.facebook.com/pages/The-Way-Human-Performance-Institute/117742824954659 )