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TRX Reverse Plank

Intermediate
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TRX Reverse Plank uses suspension straps for an unstable hold that targets glutes, hamstrings, lower back, and core to build posterior chain strength and core stability; used for endurance and conditioning.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

4/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Glutes, Hamstrings, Lower Back

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Triceps

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Stability
Endurance
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

Glutes

9/10

Glute Max

Hamstrings

9/10

Biceps Femoris, Semitendinosus, Semimembranosus

Lower Back

8/10

Erector Spinae

Abs

7/10

Rectus Abdominis

Obliques

6/10

External Obliques, Internal Obliques

Shoulders

4/10

Anterior Delts

Triceps

3/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

20-60 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds • Adjust based on hold duration

How to Perform

Anchor TRX straps at mid-calf height. Sit facing anchor with legs extended, place heels in foot cradles, hands on floor beside hips.

  1. Press through palms and heels to lift hips off floor.
  2. Form straight line from shoulders to heels.
  3. Engage glutes, hamstrings, and core to hold position.
  4. Keep shoulders down and back, away from ears.
  5. Maintain neutral head and spine alignment.
  6. Lower hips slowly with control to floor.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Squeeze glutes tight
  • Core braced like punch incoming
  • Heels drive into straps
  • Shoulders packed down
  • Straight line body
  • Breathe steady hold

Breathing

Inhale deeply to brace core before lifting, then breathe steadily while holding; exhale on descent.

Tempo

0-5-0

Range of Motion

Body aligns straight from shoulders to heels; hips neither sag nor pike above line.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute lower back pain
  • Stop if wrist discomfort
  • Warm up shoulders and core first
  • Maintain neutral spine always
  • Use modifications for beginners
  • Consult professional with injuries

Spotting

No spotter needed; perform in open space for safe dismount if fatigued.

Common Mistakes

  • Hips sagging downward
  • Shoulders shrugging up
  • Arching lower back
  • Head dropping forward
  • Knees bending slightly
  • Rushing the hold

When to Avoid

  • Lower back pain
  • Wrist injuries
  • Shoulder impingement

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder extension for hand placement
  • Ankle dorsiflexion for leg extension

Build Up First

  • Basic plank hold
  • Hip hinge awareness
  • Core bracing technique

Also known as

Suspension Reverse Plank, TRX Posterior Plank

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