Dorm Room Workout: Plank-A-Thon

By Garnet Henderson

I often incorporate different types of planks into my dorm room workouts, because they’re great for small spaces. So far, I’ve shown you planks mixed in with lots of other moves. But when I went to the gym the other day, I was reminded of what a great workout planks are all by themselves. I was holding in a plank position for a quick warmup, and realized that planks are hard. I mean, I knew that already, but wow.

Planks are a great way to energize and tone your entire body. Here’s a quick plank series that’s perfect for those days when you just don’t have time to make it to the gym. You’ll feel it, I promise!

1. Forearm plank

Start by holding in a forearm plank for one minute. Remember to really engage your abs to keep your butt from sinking toward the floor or poking up toward the ceiling.

2. Side forearm plank

You want your body to be in a straight line from your head to your feet here. Make sure not to hold tension in your shoulders – think of your shoulder blades gliding down your back. Hold on each side for 30 seconds.

3. Straight arm plank

Next, hold in a straight arm plank for one minute. Same rules apply as in the forearm plank. Also focus and keeping your arms straight without hyper-extending them.

4. Straight arm side plank

The home stretch! Hold on each side for 30 seconds.

Want more? Once is enough for a quick workout, but you can repeat this series as many times as you want!

Garnet is a student at Columbia University in New York City. When she’s not dancing or writing, she can be found exploring the city, and let’s be honest, spending way too much time on the internet. Follow her @garnethenderson.