Plank on a Balance Ball

There are a lot of exercises for ab and core strength. The plank on the balance ball is a modification to the basic plank that raises the intensity and adds more challenge to a fairly simple exercise.

Once you've mastered the basic plank, you can increase the difficulty by performing a plank on a balance ball. Because the balance ball is unstable, you will engage more muscles across the entire core from shoulders to toes.  To maintain a solid posture, you will need to make many small adjustments that require greater muscle activation.  Start by getting into plank position with your forearms on the balance ball  and your toes on the floor  Keep your abs contracted and your back straight-- you should form a straight line from your head to your toes. Hold this position for as long as you can, without sagging or arching at your hips. To increase the difficulty, keep feet close together or lift one foot off the floor.  To decrease the difficulty, spread your feet wide apart for a larger base of support.

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