Abs

Plank Walk Outs - Inchworms: Video Tutorial & Exercise Guide

Author Claude Michael

Written By: Claude Michael

Updated: Oct 13, 2024

Workout Plank Walk Outs - Inchworms
Primary Muscle Group Abs
Secondary Muscle Group Lower Back, Hamstrings
Equipment Required Bodyweight
Force Type N/A
Mechanics Compound
Exercise Type Strength
Difficulty Beginner

Plank Walk Outs - Inchworms: Video Tutorial & Exercise Guide

Muscle Groups

Primary Muscle Group

Abs Muscle Exercises
Abs

Secondary Muscles Group

Plank Walk Outs (Inchworms): Step-by-Step Guide

  • Step 1: Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart. Engage your core and bend at your hips to reach down and place your hands on the floor in front of you.
  • Step 2: Slowly walk your hands forward while keeping your legs as straight as possible, lowering your body into a plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders.
  • Step 3: Hold the plank position for a moment, ensuring your core is tight, your back is flat, and your body forms a straight line from head to heels.
  • Step 4: Walk your hands back toward your feet, keeping your legs straight as you return to a standing position. This completes one repetition.
  • Step 5: Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, focusing on slow, controlled movements to engage your core and hamstrings.

Plank Walk Outs (Inchworms): Overview

Plank walk outs, also known as inchworms, are a full-body exercise that works your core, shoulders, and hamstrings. This movement also helps improve flexibility, stability, and core endurance. It’s perfect for building functional strength as it incorporates movement from a standing position into a plank and back.

This exercise is great for warming up the body before more intense workouts or as a part of a core and stability routine. Inchworms are adaptable for all fitness levels and can be made more challenging by increasing reps or adding variations.

Plank Walk Outs (Inchworms): Benefits

Plank walk outs target your core, shoulders, and hamstrings, building strength and stability across the body. This movement also helps improve flexibility in your hamstrings and calves, while enhancing shoulder stability.

It’s a dynamic movement that can be used as a warm-up or as part of a core workout. In addition to building strength, plank walk outs elevate your heart rate slightly, making them a low-impact way to boost endurance and overall conditioning.

Plank Walk Outs (Inchworms): Pro Tips & Advanced Techniques

To get the most out of plank walk outs, focus on keeping your core engaged and your movements controlled. Avoid letting your hips sag or rise too high in the plank position. For an extra challenge, you can add a push-up once you reach the plank position or walk your hands out further than your shoulders to intensify the core engagement.

Plank Walk Outs (Inchworms): Progression Plan

Beginner

Sets: 2-3
Reps: 5-8 reps
Progression Tips: Focus on form, keeping your core tight and your legs straight. Move slowly as you walk your hands out and back.

Intermediate

Sets: 3-4
Reps: 8-10 reps
Progression Tips: Increase the pace slightly while maintaining control. Hold the plank position for a longer time before walking back up.

Advanced

Sets: 4-5
Reps: 10-12 reps
Progression Tips: Add a push-up in the plank position or walk your hands out beyond your shoulders to increase the difficulty and core activation.

Plank Walk Outs - Inchworms: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What muscles do plank walk outs work?

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Plank walk outs primarily target your core, shoulders, and hamstrings. They also engage your arms and lower back for stability.

Are plank walk outs good for flexibility?

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Yes, this exercise improves flexibility in the hamstrings and calves while also promoting better mobility in your shoulders and lower back.

Can beginners do plank walk outs?

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Yes, plank walk outs are beginner-friendly. Focus on moving slowly and maintaining proper form. Beginners can bend their knees slightly if flexibility is limited.

How often should I do plank walk outs?

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Plank walk outs can be done 2-3 times per week, either as part of your warm-up or as a core and conditioning exercise.

What common mistakes should I avoid?

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Avoid letting your hips sag or rise too high in the plank position. Also, ensure your movements are slow and controlled to avoid using momentum.

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