One-armed plank puts upper body to the test

If you’re strong enough to hold the top of a push-up for a while, give this one-armed plank variation a try -- it works your core and upper body at the same time. To perform this move correctly, your body should form a straight line with your feet wide apart. The challenge is to keep your shoulders and hip bones parallel to the ground the entire time.

--Karen Voight

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1 Begin on all fours with your hands on the ground under your shoulders. Point your fingers forward. Now curl your toes under, and extend your legs behind you. Be sure your feet are shoulder-width apart and your hips are at the same height as your shoulders. Balance on your hands and toes while keeping your abs engaged and your head in line with your spine. Hold for 10 seconds.

2 Without lifting or twisting your hips, shift your upper body weight to your right hand. Slowly move your left hand to touch your right hip bone. Hold for 10 seconds, building up to 30 seconds. Lower your left hand back down on the floor, then bend your knees and rest for 15 seconds. Repeat the exercise, this time moving your right hand to your left hip bone.

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Karen Voight can be reached at kvoightla@aol.com.