By Wanita Nicol
Enter the side plank.
To get that sexy V shape in your mid-section that looks so hot when you rock a crop, you need to tone your obliques – in other words, your side abs.

Abs On The Side

Sit-ups and planks will get you far in the quest for toned abs, but the key to a really sculpted-looking mid-section lies in working your obliques, the muscles along the sides of your tummy. Good news: even if you don’t have crazy-low body fat and a six pack, prominent obliques will still create that strong, toned look. Yes please!

Now, Here’s The Twist

To sculpt your obliques, you need to work them, obvs. Problem is, most of the exercises you do in the gym only get you moving in two planes of motion – up and down (squats, pull-ups) or forward and back (sit-ups). In order to target your obliques, you need to be incorporating twists like, say, touching your right elbow to your left knee in a crunch or pulling a cable down across your body in a wood-chopping motion. Another way? A variation on the king of abs moves – the plank.

3 Ways To Side Plank

Ready to give the side plank a try? Start with the easiest variation, then work your way up to the others as you get stronger. If you’re just starting out, aim for a 10-second hold, rest, then repeat. Do a total of three holds. TIP: Keep your supporting arm stacked directly under your shoulder and keep that mid-section tight – don’t let your hips sag.
Make it easier: If you’re struggling to balance, rest your other hand lightly on the ground or place one foot just in front of the other, rather than stacking them.
Make it harder: Instead of balancing on your elbow, rest your weight on one hand.

Workout Wednesday Challenge

Add this move into your regular workout this Wednesday. Rocking it? Try a harder variation or time yourself and see how long you can hold it on each side with good form. Snap a pic and tag us on Twitter or Instagram. Our fave pics of the day will get regrammed.