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Planks are a great way to strengthen your core and work out many different muscle groups, all at once. You can also do them anywhere — all you need is your body weight.
“The versatility and accessibility makes it one of the most incredible, well-rounded core exercises,” says celebrity trainer Jillian Michaels, creator of The Jillian Michaels Fitness App.
Here’s what you should know about the health benefits of planks and how to do them effectively.
Planks are a full-body workout
Planks don’t just target your abs, but require almost all the major muscle groups in your body to work together.
“Planks strengthen your spine, rhomboids, lats, trapezius, core, quads, glutes, hamstrings, shoulders, and triceps when done properly,” Michaels says.
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Other exercises like crunches or sit-ups can target the abs and core as effectively as
