Donkey Plank
Strengthen your core & glutes with the Donkey Plank! A challenging bodyweight exercise for a stronger you.
The Donkey Plank mainly works the core and glutes & hips, with help from the hamstrings. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Donkey Plank Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Glutes (gluteus maximus)
Secondary
Obliques; Hamstrings
Donkey Plank Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Donkey Plank
Starting Position:
Begin on a mat or a flat surface.
Get on all fours, supporting your body with your hands and knees.
Your hands should be directly under your shoulders, and your knees should be positioned directly under your hips.
Keep your back flat and your neck in a neutral position, looking at the floor.
Body Alignment:
Engage your core by pulling your belly button toward your spine.
Your elbows should be slightly bent to maintain a natural curve in your arms.
Keep your feet flat on the floor with your toes pointed.
Movement:
Slowly raise your right leg while keeping your knee bent, bringing it towards your chest.
Then, extend your leg back behind you until it's in line with your body, avoiding arching your back.
Hold this extended position for a moment, feeling the stretch across your lower back and glutes.
Return to Start:
Bring your right knee back down to the starting position.
Repeat the movement with your left leg.
Repetitions:
Aim for 8-12 repetitions on each leg.
Focus on smooth and controlled movements.
Breathing:
Inhale as you lift your leg and exhale as you lower it back down.
Tips:
Maintain a steady and controlled pace to enhance the stretch.
Ensure that your hips remain level throughout the exercise.
Cooldown:
After completing the exercise, take a moment to stretch your lower back and hamstrings for additional relief and flexibility.
Donkey Plank FAQs
What muscles does the Donkey Plank work?
The Donkey Plank mainly works the core and glutes & hips, with help from the hamstrings. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and gluteus maximus.
What equipment do you need for the Donkey Plank?
None. The Donkey Plank is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Donkey Plank go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Donkey Plank variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Quad All Four Stretch, Alternating Donkey Kick, Bird Dog Plank and Bird Dog Hold.
Training calculators
Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.





