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Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank

Strengthen your core with this dynamic plank variation! Targets abs, shoulders & arms. Feel the burn!

The Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank is a compound exercise that mainly works the core and triceps, with help from the shoulders and chest. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank demo video 2
Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank demo video 3
Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
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Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Triceps (triceps brachii)

Secondary

Obliques; Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid); Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head)

How to do the Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank

  1. Starting Position:

    • Begin on the floor, lying face down.

    • Position your elbows directly under your shoulders and hands flat on the ground, forming a forearm plank.

    • Your body should form a straight line from your head to your heels.

  2. Engaging Your Core:

    • Tuck your toes under and lift your body up onto your toes.

    • Engage your core by tightening your abdominal muscles to maintain stability.

  3. Movement:

    • From the forearm plank position, push up onto one hand, followed by the other hand, so that you transition to a high plank (hands directly under shoulders).

    • Lower back down to the forearm plank one arm at a time, starting with the same hand that moved first.

    • Alternate which arm leads each time you move up and down.

  4. Breathing:

    • Inhale as you lift up to the high plank and exhale as you lower back down to the forearm plank.

  5. Repetitions:

    • Continue this up and down movement for the desired number of repetitions or for a set period of time, typically 30 seconds to 1 minute for beginners.

  6. Form Tips:

    • Keep your hips level, avoiding sagging or lifting too high.

    • Keep your head aligned with your spine, and avoid looking up or down excessively.

  7. Ending the Exercise:

    • Gradually lower your knees to the floor after completing your repetitions to come out of the plank position.

    • Rest in a child’s pose or seated position to cool down.

Remember to listen to your body and modify the exercise as needed.

Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank FAQs

What muscles does the Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank work?

The Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank mainly works the core and triceps, with help from the shoulders and chest. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and triceps brachii.

What equipment do you need for the Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank?

None. The Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

Is the Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What are some Dynamic Elbow Up-Down Plank variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Saw Plank, Body Up, Elbow Push-Up and Elbow to Decline Knee Side-Plank.

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