What is a planking exercise?

Planking is an exercise in which a person gets into a position similar to that of a push-up and holds it. Though it looks like a push-up, planking is regarded more as an abdominal exercise.

To plank, a person first gets into push-up position, but then he places the elbows on the floor and rests his weight on his forearms. The goal is to hold this position for as long as possible. Doing so puts pressure on the abs. Planking also strengthens a person's core, shoulders, glutes and arms. Some people plank several times a day; doing it consistently contributes to increased levels of endurance and fitness benefits.