More than simply clocking time at the gym is required; learning specialized routines like how to side plank dip like a pro helps train specific body parts. Strap on as we show you not just how to get six-pack abs but also how to master a side plank dip exercise.
Our step-by-step guide will help you improve stomach muscle engagement, shoulder stability, form and alignment, and core strength. Mastering the basic side plank is essential before progressing to more advanced variations.
Nailing the Basic Side Plank
The basic side plank is simple, involving just a couple of easy-to-follow steps:
- Start by lying on your side with your feet stacked and your hands under your shoulders.
- Engage your muscle engagement by drawing your belly button towards your spine.
- Lift your hips off the ground, keeping your body in a straight line from head to heels.
- Hold the position for 30-60 seconds, breathing naturally. Focus on maintaining proper form and alignment.
- Repeat on the other side in as many cycles as possible.
However, once you’ve mastered the basic side plank, it may become boring and mechanical. That would be a good time to progress to more challenging variations.
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Go Pro With Side Planks By Stepping Up the Ante
Now that you understand the rudiments of the side plank exercise, there are a few more levels before qualifying as someone who knows how to side plank dip like a pro.
- Increase the duration: Hold the side plank longer, aiming for 60-90 seconds.
- Add leg lifts: Lift your top leg off the ground, keeping it straight, and hold for a few seconds before lowering.
- Incorporate arm movements: Lift your top arm off the ground, holding it straight, and hold for a few seconds before lowering. This will also engage your oblique workout.
Interestingly, side planks are one of those bodyweight exercise routines that you can easily personalize to help achieve tailored fitness goals. Here are a couple of such customized side planks:
- Knee-down side plank: Instead of lifting your hips off the ground, place your knee on the ground for support.
- Wall-supported side plank: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and place your hand on a wall for support.
The Importance of Core Strength Improvement Through Side Planking
Side planking is a powerful exercise that targets the muscles in your core, arms, and legs. This exercise is essential for building core strength, improving posture, and enhancing overall fitness. You can improve your balance training and shoulder stability by incorporating side planks into your workout routine.
Your core muscles, including your abs, obliques, and lower back, play a crucial role in maintaining good posture, balance, and overall athletic performance. Weak core muscles can lead to poor posture, back pain, and decreased athletic performance. Incorporating core-strengthening exercises like side planks into your workout routine can improve your overall core strength and reduce musculoskeletal pain.
How To Incorporate Side Plank Into Your Workout Routine
Dip exercises and side planks can be incorporated into your daily workout routine in many ways. However, your overall goal is to be consistent with whatever fitness routine you have developed. Developing multiple fitness routines and eventually not having enough time or willpower to keep up is pointless.
So, here are some tips on how to incorporate side planks into your daily workout:
- Add side planks to your core workouts: Incorporate side planks into your core workout routine and other exercises like planks and Russian twists.
- Use side planks as a warm-up or cool-down exercise. Perform side planks as a warm-up or cool-down exercise to prepare your muscles for your workout.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Side Planking
When performing side planks, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that can strain your muscles unnecessarily and leave you aching long after the routine.
Here are some pro tips on how to sidestep such mistakes:
- Engage your core muscles: Draw your belly button towards your spine to engage your core muscles.
- Keep your body in a straight line: Maintain a straight line from head to heels to avoid putting unnecessary strain on your muscles.
- Focus on your breathing: Breathe naturally and avoid holding your breath.
- Avoid letting your hips sag: Keep your hips lifted and your body in a straight line.
- Don’t arch your back: Keep your spine neutral and avoid arching your back.
- Avoid holding your breath: Breathe naturally and avoid holding your breath.
Learning to side plank dip like a pro is a surefire way to improve your core strength, balance training, and shoulder stability. By incorporating side planks into your workout routine and progressing to more advanced variations, you can take your fitness to the next level. Remember to focus on proper form and alignment, engage your muscles, and modify bodyweight exercises to suit your fitness level.