Bodyweight Plank Jack

Beginner
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A high-intensity plank variation requiring stability and core control while rapidly jumping the feet wide and back together. Targets the core, hip flexors, and shoulders for conditioning.

About Exercise

Equipment

Body Weight

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Abs

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Glutes, Quads

Popularity Score

8

Goals

Conditioning
Endurance
Stability

Training Style

HIIT
Calisthenics
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Moderate

Muscle Breakdown

Abs

9/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Hip Flexors

6/10

Iliopsoas

Shoulders

5/10

Anterior Delts

Glutes

4/10

Glute Max

Quads

3/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

15-30 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-90 seconds • Shorter rest for conditioning and HIIT protocols.

How to Perform

Start in a high plank position with hands directly under the shoulders, forming a straight line from the head to the heels. Engage the core and glutes tightly before starting the movement.

  1. Maintain a rigid torso and jump both feet out wide simultaneously.
  2. Immediately jump the feet back together to the starting position.
  3. Keep the hips level and stable throughout the movement.
  4. Continue the quick out-and-in motion for the desired duration or reps.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Core tight and rigid.
  • Hips stay low and stable.
  • Shoulders over wrists.
  • Land lightly on feet.

Breathing

Inhale deeply before starting and maintain short, controlled breaths throughout the dynamic exercise while actively bracing the core.

Tempo

1-0-1

Range of Motion

The feet jump wide enough to briefly land outside shoulder width, then immediately return to touching or near-touching together.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid this exercise if you have acute wrist or shoulder pain.
  • Focus on maintaining core stability to protect the lower back.

Spotting

Not recommended.

Common Mistakes

  • Letting the hips sag or pike high.
  • Excessive hip rotation during the jumps.
  • Bending the elbows.
  • Looking up or dropping the head.

When to Avoid

  • Acute wrist or shoulder pain
  • Severe low back pain

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate wrist extension

Build Up First

  • Competent high plank hold for 30 seconds

Also known as

Plank Jack, Plank Jacks, Extended Leg Jumps, Snap Jumps

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