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Both versions are valuable, but theyll challenge your bodyslightlydifferently.

A forearm plank is really going to hit those deep transverse abdominals more.

Youre also slightly more horizontal to the floor, which is a more challenging position to maintain.

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a certified personal trainer and founder ofNourish Move Love

Your lower body will also kick in to keep you lifted above the ground.

A forearm plank is really going to hit those deep transverse abdominals more.

But thats not the only reason to do them.

Woman walking on a treadmill at the gym.

If you struggle with traditional planks, getting onto your forearms can sometimes be a more accessible option.

It can be a lot to put full extension on your wrists in a high plank, she says.

So anyone who complains about wrist pain, forearm plank is a great alternative.

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a certified personal trainer and founder ofNourish Move Love

Youre going to need another strategy to get those Popeye biceps.

If I see people with their butt in the air, I cue pull your toes toward your wrists.

She also suggests thinking of shifting your weight forward to double-check your shoulders are stacked above your wrists.

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When we get fatigued, we push back, she says.

A high plank will work most of the same muscles as a forearm plank.

Going down to your forearms for those moves simply isnt an option.

Healthy female training in the gym, performing a hip thrust.

The [high] plank is just such a wide, universally-used move, Bomgren says.

Chandler says a traditional high plank can be tough to hold if youre working on your balance.

Also, if you have wrist pain, this version can be tough.

A young black woman doing post-run stretches in the park on the road amidst green grass and trees.

It puts more strain on your wrists compared to the forearm plank, Chandler says.

Its also friendlier to your joints.

It helps strengthen your core without putting stress on your wrists, Chandler says.

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And this traditional position is also essential for performing other exercises like push-ups.

Do both if you’re able to to getall the benefits.

I think theyre both great to include in a well-rounded exercise routine, Bomgren says.

But whichever planks you like to do, she suggests striking that pose regularly.

Its something that should be included in everyones weekly workout routine, she says.

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