Plank exercises/core stabilizers

[dss62467]

Hi Cathe - I did S&H chest/back this morning for the first time. I noticed with the plank exercises that I wasn't feeling any fatigue or work in the core area, but was getting very tired in my arms and shoulders. In fact, that's what always kept me from holding them for the full duration in CTX. Is that normal or am I doing something wrong?


THANKS!

 

[fitden]

Bumping--I'm curious also!

Most times I am able to get through these exercises, although sometimes not when my muscles are very fatigued (DH says it looks like I'm having seizures at those times!) The point is, it isn't my core that's giving in, but my arms. So, like the original poster I would also like to know if I'm doing something wrong, or if my arms are simply too fatigued to withstand any more strenuous activity.

Thanks!
Denise

 

[cjbate]

If you search earlier posts on "plank" you might find the answer to this, I remember an earlier post when Cathe mentioned that when your core muscles are not yet strong, your body depends more on your upper body during planks, hence the strain in your upper body. As your core/abs get stronger, your body/weight leans on your core more, and you'll feel it less in your upper body. I have noticed that happening lately, it has taken me a while to build up my core strength. The shift in body weight is very subtle...lately I find myself pushing my weight more towards my toes, which encourages my core muscles to pull more of their share of the battle. Yes, I am shaking too!! Toughies. Hope this helps.

Jen

 

[JennC]

Hi! One thing I've done is do the core/plank exercises first when doing CTX. That really seemed to help me. Of course this is easier with the DVD, I'd do the warm-up, skip to the planks and then go back to do the cardio/weight training

 

[fitden]

Thanks to both of you! Boy that was a reality check--I thought my core was really strong, but I guess I have work to do! I love the planks because they're so different than the traditional crunches, and a nice change of pace. They take alot of concentration!

JennC, I do the planks first sometimes also, because I feel so much better when I can get through them than when I collapse after intense weight work!

Either way, it's a goal to work up to, which makes me very determined!