Heart Health
Move of the month: Modified front plank
- Reviewed by Christopher P. Cannon, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
For this exercise, you hold your body stiff, like a wooden plank. Although the classic version is done on the floor, you can do this easier version using a desk or table. It's an example of an isometric exercise, in which the muscles contract but do not move. Planks are a great way to strengthen muscles in the abdomen, back, legs, shoulders, and arms.
Starting position: Stand facing a table or counter (or any other solid surface that will not move) with your feet shoulder-width apart.
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About the Author
Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
About the Reviewer
Christopher P. Cannon, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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