Weighted Plank

Overview

Target Muscle Groups:: Core, back, shoulders, glutes.
Equipment:: Body weight, weight plate.
Difficulty:: Intermediate.

General Information

Weighted Plank is a compound exercise that primarily targets the core and also engages the back, shoulders, and glutes. It is an intermediate-level movement that adds external load to a standard plank to increase bracing demand.

It is effective for anti-extension strength, trunk endurance, and maintaining rib-to-pelvis alignment under load. Small weight increments go a long way, and clean breathing mechanics are essential to avoid compensations.

Use a flat plate or light dumbbell placed over the mid-to-upper back. Choose it when time-based planks are no longer challenging or when you want dense core work without long holds.

Instructions

Set up in a forearm plank with elbows under shoulders, feet hip-width, and a light posterior pelvic tilt.
Have a partner place a weight plate across your upper back between the shoulder blades without pressing on the neck.
Brace the abdomen 360° and maintain steady breathing through the hold; do not hold your breath throughout the set.
Keep ribs down, glutes lightly squeezed, and avoid letting the low back arch or hips sag.
Hold for the prescribed duration or strong breaths; end the set before the spine position deteriorates.
Have the partner remove the plate safely before lowering your knees or stepping out.

Common Mistakes

Hips sagging

Keep a slight posterior pelvic tilt to avoid lumbar extension under load.

Plate too high on the neck

Place the plate across the upper back between shoulder blades, not on the cervical spine.

Holding the breath

Use steady breathing to maintain intra-abdominal pressure without excessive bracing.

Adding weight too quickly

Increase load gradually and prioritize posture and duration first.

Injuries

Weighted Plank is a medium risk exercise when performed with proper technique.

Lumbar overextension and neck pressure are the main concerns. Place the plate away from the neck, keep a slight posterior tilt, and end the set when alignment degrades.

If breath holding or shaking occurs, reduce load or time and rebuild control. Progress gradually; regress to bodyweight planks or elevate the forearms if any sharp pain appears.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much weight should I start with?: Start with a very light plate that allows you to hold a strong position for the target time. Add small increments only when alignment is consistent.
Q: Where exactly should the plate go?: Across the upper back between the shoulder blades. Avoid the neck and keep the load centered over the torso.
Q: Is time or reps better for tracking?: Most lifters track by time. Choose a consistent method and progress by adding duration, load, or stricter tempo as form allows.
Q: Can I do it without a partner?: Use a weighted vest or carefully slide a small plate into position before setting your forearms. Safety is easier with a partner.

Overview

Target Muscle Groups:: Core, back, shoulders, glutes.
Equipment:: Body weight, weight plate.
Difficulty:: Intermediate.