Side Plank on Elbow (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Level
intermediate
Force
static
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
trx
Category
strength
Primary Muscles

An advanced lateral core exercise with feet suspended in TRX straps and body supported on one forearm, maximizing oblique and lateral core stabilizer engagement.

Instructions

  1. Place both feet in the TRX foot cradles in a side plank position
  2. Support your upper body on one forearm with elbow under shoulder
  3. Create a straight line from head to heels
  4. Engage your core and obliques to prevent hips from dropping
  5. Hold this position while maintaining alignment and stability
  6. Keep constant tension in the TRX straps
  7. Complete prescribed time, then switch to the opposite side

Tips

  • The suspension adds significant instability to the standard side plank
  • Keep your shoulders stacked and prevent rolling forward or backward
  • Engage your glutes to assist in maintaining alignment
  • Shorter holds with perfect form are preferable to longer holds with poor alignment
  • Maintain steady breathing throughout the hold
  • This exercise is excellent for lateral core strength and shoulder stability

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 15 s
Build muscle 3 25 s
Build endurance 3 35 s

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength

Side Plank (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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Side Plank with Hip Drop (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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Standing Hip Drop (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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