Side Plank (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Level
beginner
Force
static
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
trx
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A core stability exercise in a side plank position with feet suspended in TRX straps, intensifying oblique engagement and lateral core strength.

Instructions

  1. Place both feet in the TRX foot cradles and lie on your side with forearm under shoulder
  2. Create a side plank position with your body in a straight line from head to heels
  3. Engage your core and obliques to lift your hips toward the ceiling
  4. Hold this position maintaining alignment and stability
  5. Keep tension in the TRX straps throughout the hold
  6. Complete the prescribed time on one side, then switch and repeat
  7. Maintain steady breathing and avoid hips dropping

Tips

  • The suspended feet increase instability and oblique demands
  • Keep your shoulders stacked directly over your elbow
  • Engage your glutes to assist in maintaining alignment
  • Shorter holds with perfect form are better than longer holds with poor alignment
  • If hips drop, end the set and rest before attempting again
  • This exercise targets the often-neglected lateral core muscles

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 on Elbow (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about side plank on elbow (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength

Side Plank with Hip Drop (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about side plank with hip drop (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength
intermediate strength

Standing Hip Drop (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about standing hip drop (trx / suspension trainer)
beginner strength

Torso Rotation (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about torso rotation (trx / suspension trainer)
beginner strength