Scissors Side-Plank
Strengthen your core and obliques with this challenging side plank variation!
The Scissors Side-Plank mainly works the core, with help from the hip abductors (outer thighs) and back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Optional Equipment
Scissors Side-Plank Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques
Secondary
Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Lats (latissimus dorsi)
Scissors Side-Plank Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Scissors Side-Plank
Begin by lying on your side with your feet together and one forearm directly below your shoulder.
Engage your core and raise your hips until your body forms a straight line from head to feet.
Lift your top leg as high as possible, keeping it straight without bending the knee.
Lower the top leg down and lift your bottom leg to meet it, creating a scissor motion with your legs. Your bottom leg should not touch the ground when lowering.
Alternate raising each leg while maintaining the side plank position, keeping your torso stable and hips elevated.
Ensure your head remains in a neutral position, aligned with your spine, and resist the urge to drop your head or hips.
Continue alternating your leg lifts for the desired number of repetitions or for a set amount of time while maintaining form.
Repeat on the other side to ensure an even workout.
The images provided illustrate the form and muscles involved during the Side Plank Scissors exercise. Remember to perform the exercise slowly and with control to maximize engagement of the targeted muscle groups and minimize the risk of injury.
Scissors Side-Plank FAQs
What muscles does the Scissors Side-Plank work?
The Scissors Side-Plank mainly works the core, with help from the hip abductors (outer thighs) and back. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and obliques.
What equipment do you need for the Scissors Side-Plank?
None. The Scissors Side-Plank is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Scissors Side-Plank variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Lying Abdominal Scissors Crunch, Lying Oblique Scissors, Lying Scissor Crunch and Ab Scissors.
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