12 basic plank variations for beginners

Planking is hands down one of the best ways to put your core to the test. Unfortunately, planking can also quickly become one of the most boring ways to put your core to the test.

With a series of quick tweaks, though, you can transform the humble plank into a whole array of new muscular challenges to finally build those six-pack abs you've been after.

Men's Fitness' Mike Simone demonstrates the 12 plank variations you should be working into your routine immediately.

1. Standard plank

Also known as "pushup position."

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2. Elbow plank

Like a standard plank, except supported on your forearms.

3. One-arm plank

Puts your torso off-balance, forcing your core to work harder.

4. One-leg plank

A great way to reveal strength imbalances across your core and challenge your glutes.

5. Side plank

Challenges not only your abs but also your obliques and your shoulders.

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6. Side plank with pull-through

Taxing for total-body strength and balance, especially in your shoulders.

7. Shoulder tap plank

Adds an upper-body workout to the standard plank. (Focus on keeping your body still—don't rock back and forth.)

8. Body saw plank

Targets shoulders and back, along with core, glutes, hamstrings, and calves. Also an excellent way to practice the planche plank.

9. Reach under plank

Helps improve flexibility in the hips, and stability in the core and upper body.

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10. Star plank

An ultra-tough variation on the standard plank. See how long you can hold it, and how far out you can span your arms and legs.

11. Walk out plank

Hits the abs like a roll-out while testing your hip flexibility. Try not to bend your back too far forward.

12. Planche plank

A slightly less difficult variation on the planche, a classic gymnastics move and test of isometric total-body strength. Excellent for testing shoulder mobility and upper-body strength.

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