Side Plank on Elbow (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
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
- Place both feet in the TRX foot cradles in a side plank position
- Support your upper body on one forearm with elbow under shoulder
- Create a straight line from head to heels
- Engage your core and obliques to prevent hips from dropping
- Hold this position while maintaining alignment and stability
- Keep constant tension in the TRX straps
- 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.
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