How to do an Incline Side Plank
The Incline Side Plank is a beginner bodyweight exercise that works your abs, with help from your obliques and shoulders.
How to do an Incline Side Plank, step by step
- Start by lying on your side with your legs extended and stacked on top of each other.
- Place your forearm on the ground directly below your shoulder, with your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle.
- Engage your core and lift your hips off the ground, creating a straight line from your head to your feet.
- Hold this position for the desired amount of time.
- Lower your hips back down to the ground and repeat on the other side.
Muscles worked
| Target muscles | Abs |
|---|---|
| Secondary muscles | Obliques Shoulders |
| Equipment | Bodyweight |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
Common mistakes
- Using momentum
- Poor form
- Inadequate warm-up
Sets and reps by goal
| Goal | Sets x reps |
|---|---|
| Strength | 3-4 sets x 6-8 reps |
| Muscle growth | 3-4 sets x 10-15 reps |
| Endurance | 2-3 sets x 15-25 reps |
| Power | Not recommended |
Alternatives, progressions and regressions
Similar exercises
More exercises for the same muscles
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Incline Side Plank work?
The Incline Side Plank mainly works your abs. It also works your obliques and shoulders.
Is the Incline Side Plank good for beginners?
Yes. The Incline Side Plank is a beginner-friendly exercise. Start with a light load or no load, learn the movement first and add weight gradually.
How many sets and reps of the Incline Side Plank should I do?
A good starting point is 3-4 sets x 6-8 reps for strength, 3-4 sets x 10-15 reps for muscle growth and 2-3 sets x 15-25 reps for endurance. Rest 1 to 3 minutes between sets and add weight when you reach the top of the rep range with good form.
What can I do instead of the Incline Side Plank?
Good alternatives are Hanging Leg Raise (Slings), Plank with Twist and Cross Body Crunch.
Put it in a workout plan
Track your Incline Side Plank in UltraFit360
Log sets and reps, see your previous weights and let the app build your program. Free on iOS and Android.