#HealthBytes: Top 5 health benefits of doing planks everyday
On the face of it, planking as an exercise looks utterly easy (even, boring!). Truth is it's either. The core exercise is a great way to work a number of muscle groups simultaneously. What makes planking such a popular workout option is that it requires literally zero equipment, and can be performed virtually anywhere. Here are 5 health-benefits of doing planks.
Planking everyday can help strengthen your core
Your core basically comprises muscles, bones, and joints that link your upper body and lower body. By planking everyday, you can strengthen all major muscle groups of your core- the transverse abdominus, the rectus abdominis, external oblique muscle, and the glutes. A healthy core is crucial to basic physical activities like lifting, bending, turning etc. Daily planking ensures our ability to perform them easily.
Planking everyday tones up your tummy
Newer studies show that planks are way better an exercise to help you shed belly fat than those old-fashioned sit-ups, which may also lead to lower back pain. A Journal of Strength and Conditioning study found out that planks provide 100% activation of your six-pack muscles whereas crunches only engage 64%. Thus, for that beach-ready toned-tummy, perform planks each day, starting today!
Planking helps improve your flexibility; reduces risk of back injuries
By strengthening muscles in shoulders, shoulder blades, collarbone, and hamstrings, arches of your feet, and toes, planking helps in improving your overall body flexibility. Additionally, planks also help avoid back injuries and spinal column issues by reducing back pain and strengthening your muscles, thus building a strong support for your entire back, especially in the areas around your upper back.
Daily planks also improve your body posture and balance
Posture: A good posture is important for a healthy digestive, circulatory, and nervous system. Planks, by stretching and strengthening your muscles, help improve your posture, thus making you look healthier and more confident. Balance: By giving strength to your abdominal muscles- planking, on a daily-basis, also enhances your balance, thus helping reduce risk of falls.
Daily planking will help boost your mood; improve mental health
Sitting on chair and staring at your laptop screens for extended hours can tighten your muscles, especially in the legs, thighs, and shoulders. However, planking, by stretching out your tightened muscles, relaxes and eases them, ultimately bringing a calming effect to your brain. This way, you'll experience enhanced mood, and reduction in symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.
