Plank Shoulder Tap Exercise: Transform Your Core

Getting fit and healthy can be a real pain in the abs (pun intended). Finding the right exercises that work for you can be a struggle, but have you heard of the plank shoulder tap exercise? It’s a fun and challenging workout that will have you feeling the burn in all the right places.

Let’s dive into the benefits of this workout, which body parts are impacted, the equipment you need, the steps to do it correctly, mistakes to avoid while doing it, and how it can improve your overall fitness routine.

Benefits of the Plank Shoulder Tap Exercise

This exercise is a great way to improve your overall strength and stability. This exercise targets your core muscles, which include your abs, back, and obliques. It also works your shoulders, chest, and arms.

By doing plank shoulder taps regularly, you can improve your balance, coordination, and posture. It’s also a great exercise to add to your fitness routine if you’re looking to strengthen your abs without doing traditional crunches.

What Body Parts are Impacted by the Plank Shoulder Tap Exercise

The plank shoulder tap exercise is a full-body workout that targets your core muscles, including your abs, back, and obliques. Additionally, it works your shoulders, chest, and arms.

By doing plank shoulder taps regularly, you’ll see an improvement in your overall body strength and stability.

Equipment You Need to do the Plank Shoulder Tap Exercise

The best thing about this exercise is that it doesn’t require any equipment. All you need is a comfortable surface to place your hands on, such as a yoga mat or a soft floor.

You may also want to wear comfortable clothing and shoes that provide good support.

Steps for Doing the Plank Shoulder Tap Exercise

Step 1: Begin in a plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders and your feet hip-width apart.

Step 2: Keep your core engaged and your body in a straight line.

Step 3: While keeping your hips level, lift your right hand off the floor and tap your left shoulder.

Step 4: Return your right hand to the floor and repeat with your left hand tapping your right shoulder.

Step 5: Continue to alternate tapping your shoulders for a set amount of reps or time.

The video below shows how to complete the exercise.

Mistakes to Avoid

While the plank shoulder tap exercise is relatively simple, there are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid to get the most out of your workout.

Firstly, make sure your hips stay level throughout the exercise. Avoid twisting or rotating your body to the side, as this can put unnecessary strain on your back.

Secondly, keep your core engaged and your body in a straight line. Avoid arching or rounding your back, as this can cause back pain.

Thirdly, avoid holding your breath during the exercise. Instead, breathe in and out slowly and steadily to help you maintain your balance and focus.

Conclusion

The plank shoulder tap exercise is a fun and challenging way to improve your overall strength and stability. It targets your core muscles, shoulders, chest, and arms, making it a full-body workout.

Additionally, it’s a great exercise to add to your fitness routine if you’re looking to strengthen your abs without doing traditional crunches. Plus, it doesn’t require any equipment, making it a convenient workout that you can do anywhere.

So, next time you’re looking to switch up your fitness routine, give the plank shoulder tap exercise a try and feel the burn in all the right places.

As with any exercise, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new fitness routine. Additionally, you can mix up your core workout routine by adding exercises like the Lateral Lunge Exercise.