I think we can all agree that the plank is an essential core exercise and you will find it in almost every workout program. I am a firm believer that you need to master the basics first before adding progressions and it is always okay to modify to fit your fitness level. Safety first! Once you have perfected your basic plank and side plank you can change it up challenging your core strength and stability and keep things fresh. Variety is the spice of life, right?!
Here are two different plank variations:
1) Walking plank: move from forearm to hand alternating sides, working hard to keep your pelvis/hips as square to the ground as possible. Keep your shoulders broad on your back by engaging your latissumus dorsi and serratus anterior (shoulder stabilizing muscles).
2) Side plank + elbow to knee: challenge your stability by adding movement while holding your side plank. Drawing your top elbow and knee towards one another while maintaining your side plank. Working all of the muscles of your core!