Plank to push-up.

Stability of the spine is necessary for preventing pain and enhancing performance (Liebenson, 2006; McGill, 2006). Core muscle endurance is a key quality to train. Many exercises have been developed for the core including traditional ones such as sit-ups which have been recently called into question (McGill, 2006). Training the spine in a neutral posture which reinforces the natural upright curve of the low back has been recommended as a form of functional training (McGill, 2006). This handout details a movement sequence called The Plank to Push-Up. It is an advanced move requiring control of both the plank and push-up positions individually.