Full Planche
An advanced bodyweight isometric exercise where the body is held completely horizontal with arms supporting all bodyweight, requiring exceptional upper-body and core strength.
Instructions
- Begin on the ground with your hands positioned slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Position your hands at approximately waist level or slightly forward of your hips.
- Engage your shoulders by depressing your scapula and creating maximum upper body tension.
- Lean forward gradually while maintaining a completely straight body position.
- Progress from bent knees to toes only touching the ground to full horizontal position.
- Keep your body completely straight from head to heels; do not allow hips to sag.
- Maintain this horizontal position by sustaining constant tension through your entire upper body.
- Lower yourself gradually to complete the hold and rest.
Tips
- This is an extremely advanced skill requiring months or years of progressive training.
- Begin with tuck and advanced tuck positions before progressing to straddle and full planche.
- Proper shoulder strength, scapular positioning, and core engagement are absolutely essential.
- Consistent, progressive training and patience are required for this difficult skill.
- Wrist strength and conditioning are prerequisites for safe training in this position.
- This exercise builds exceptional pushing strength and body control.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Hold |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 5 s |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 s |
| Build endurance | 3 | 15 s |
Alternatives
Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.
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