Why you should start planking during work

Yue Ou
Yue Ou
Aug 9, 2017 · 3 min read

When I tried planking for the first time four years ago, I never thought I would be so passionate about it today and that I almost regret I didn’t start earlier. Plank is now a strict part of my daily routine and I won’t let one-day pass by without squeezing my abs for two minutes.

I love most things about our office but I feel there’s one thing missing: a lot of people sit the whole day and don’t do exercises during the day. I do believe most of us are still healthy, happy and productive but why not make it even better? I’ve been trying to encourage people around me to do planks during the break and I’m very happy to see that more and more people are joining and they’re getting better and better!

First of all, what is plank? The plank is a isometric exercise which requires you to face the ground, extend your legs, support yourself with your elbows or hands for the maximum possible time. There are a couple reasons why I think planking is the best exercise you can do in the office:

1. Planking makes you fit, physically and mentally — Planking strengthens your core, your lower back and your shoulders. It also improves your balance and posture. Just like any other exercise, planking improves your mood. It also strengthens your willpower since holding the position takes strength and endurance.

2. Planking is effective — It only takes a couple of minutes but you’ll feel a LOT. Also, it doesn’t distract you from work because you can plank like during build while still focusing on your task.

3. Planking is easy — everyone can plank! You can control the difficulty of the exercise by adjusting the time period. You can also plank whenever and wherever you want. A flat surface is the only thing you need.

4. Planking encourages socializing — Most people don’t feel like planking on their own. You can plank with a couple of friends together and make it a small competition. You can also talk to friends during planking, which makes time go by a lot faster.

5. Planking is non-disturbing — While planking in the office creates an athletic atmosphere and motivates your co-workers, its isometric nature makes it non-disturbing, which makes it a perfect office workout.

All above being said, I hope you can keep planking every day, if you already started. If it’s the first time you hear about planking, give it a try! I’m not sure if you’ll love it, but I’m sure it’ll make you a more loveable person in the long run.

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