Side plank takes practice

With this move, you’ll strengthen your upper body and core muscles while improving your balance and concentration. Stick with the first variation until you feel less wobbly. Once you feel stable, go ahead and try the more advanced version with one leg up. Remember, the best way to get good at these poses is lots and lots of practice.

--Karen Voight

1 To perform the side plank, begin in a push-up position with your arms and legs straight, balancing on your hands and toes. Rotate your body to the left, keeping your arms, back and legs straight. Stack your feet and raise your left arm above your left shoulder. Your body should form a straight line, diagonal to the floor. Keep your hips forward and lifted. Do not let your hips sag toward the floor. Hold for three breaths. Return to the push-up position and repeat on the other side.

2 Once you are comfortable in a side plank with your right arm underneath and your feet stacked, use your left arm to help slide your left foot up toward your right inner thigh. Move it up as high as possible with your left knee pointed up. Do not let your hips move. Press your left foot against your right thigh with your right knee straight. Raise your left arm straight above your left shoulder. Hold for three breaths. Return to the start position and repeat on the other side.

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Reach Karen Voight at kvoightla@aol.com.