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TRX Plank

Intermediate
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TRX Plank elevates feet in suspension straps during a forearm plank to heighten instability, demanding intense core activation. It targets abs, obliques, and lower back to enhance stability and prevent injury.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Abs, Obliques

Secondary Muscles

Glutes, Lats

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Stability
Strength
Conditioning

Training Style

Functional Training
Calisthenics

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Abs

10/10

Rectus Abdominis

Obliques

9/10

External Obliques, Internal Obliques

Lower Back

7/10

Erector Spinae

Shoulders

6/10

Anterior Delts

Glutes

5/10

Glute Max

Lats

4/10

Teres Major

Programming

Typical Rep Range

20-60 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds • Recover fully between holds

How to Perform

Anchor TRX straps mid-calf length to a secure overhead point. Kneel facing away, place toes in foot cradles, and position forearms on floor with elbows under shoulders.

  1. Brace core and squeeze glutes.
  2. Lift knees off floor, extending legs to align body in straight line from head to heels.
  3. Pack shoulders by drawing scapulae down and back.
  4. Push heels into cradles to maintain stability.
  5. Hold position, keeping hips neutral without sagging or piking.
  6. Breathe steadily while engaging entire core.
  7. Lower knees controlled to floor to exit.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Core tight
  • Hips level
  • Shoulders packed
  • Heels pushed back
  • Neutral spine
  • Glutes engaged

Breathing

Inhale deeply to brace, then exhale while holding; continue steady breathing without straining.

Tempo

0-10-0

Range of Motion

Body forms straight line from head to heels, with shoulders over elbows and no hip deviation beyond neutral spine.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Secure anchor point firmly
  • Master basic plank first
  • Avoid if acute back pain exists
  • Stop if shoulder discomfort arises
  • Progress gradually from kneeling
  • Ensure straps adjusted correctly

Spotting

No spotter needed; use self-supported position or wall for balance if beginner.

Common Mistakes

  • Allowing hips to sag
  • Arching lower back
  • Shrugging shoulders
  • Letting body swing
  • Poor elbow alignment
  • Incomplete core brace

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back injury
  • Shoulder impingement
  • Wrist instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion for plank position
  • Ankle dorsiflexion minimal
  • Hip mobility for straight line

Build Up First

  • Master basic floor plank
  • Core bracing proficiency
  • Familiarity with TRX setup

Also known as

Suspended Plank, TRX Suspension Plank, TRX Core Plank

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