30 Day Plank Challenge

Any of you who have worked with me in the past know that the plank and variations of the plank is and are some of my favorite exercises, especially at the beginning and end of exercise sessions.  I try to focus on static or subtle planks early on and progress to movement oriented planks later in sessions.  I do this for two reasons.

1. At the beginning of sessions planks, after a good warm-up, are great to activate the core muscles and prepare them for more complicated movements during the workout.  Our ability to prevent movement is key to preventing injury and isolating specific muscle groups during exercise.
2. At the end of sessions planks are a great way to “finish off” the core muscle category and by integrating some movement we can hit some of the more superficial ab muscles so you can see more definition in your core.  This is to be done even following any cardio but before stretching.

As some of you know I am currently training for the Superior 100 Trail Race on September 9 on the Superior Hiking Trail.  This summer has been full of activity, mostly around keeping up with the kids so training has taken a bit of a back seat.  I need to keep telling myself that I have completed two 50k events and 25 miles of a 50 miler at the end of July this summer already so a quick boost in training volume and some trail specific work should get me to the end, especially since this is my 5th attempt at the 100 mile distance.  I’ve dropped due to heat, cold and want to, having finished just one of four previous attempts so I hope I’m prepared for anything.

One of the things I’m doing this time around to get my core stronger and more ready for the 100 mile test is a 30 day plank challenge.  I decided to do it today as I was running barefoot on pavement for three miles hardening my feet, and maybe burning them a bit.  They feel good now though and hopefully they’re harder than they were before that test.

I wanted to bring you along for this ride which is why I’m sharing this challenge with all of you!  In the past when we’ve done challenges we’ve engaged up to hundreds of people.  Some of which our challenges were just the spark they needed to kick their health and fitness journey’s into gear.  That’s my hope this time around too.  If I can inspire even one person to live in healthier rhythm, my decision to share this experience with you is worth it to me.
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So, join me in the 30 Day Plank Challenge HERE and post pictures of you doing your plank over the next 30 days on the event page.  Share it with your friends, family and clients too as having support really does make a huge difference.  When I toe the line on September 9th I’ll surely feel all of your support and am appreciative for it.