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Side planks, also called the side bridge and one of Dr. Stuart McGill's Big 3 core exercises, are an isometric hold where you support your body in a straight line on one forearm and the side of one foot. They primarily target the obliques and the deep stabilizer quadratus lumborum, while the glutes, especially the gluteus medius, and the shoulder work to hold the position. Set your elbow directly under your shoulder, stack or stagger your feet, and lift your hips so your body forms a straight line from head to feet. Keep your hips high so they do not sag, and keep your neck in line with your spine. Side planks build lateral core strength and hip stability the standard plank misses, supporting your spine against side bending.

Exercise descriptions were generated with AI. Always consult a qualified professional before starting a new training program.