The core exercise where you hold a straight body position supported on your forearms and toes is called a plank.
The standard forearm plank resembles the top position of a push-up, but the elbows and forearms support the upper body. The exerciser keeps the head, shoulders, hips, and legs aligned while bracing the abdominal and other trunk muscles. Unlike a crunch or push-up, the basic plank is held statically rather than performed through repeated movement.
A plank is an isometric exercise, meaning the muscles produce tension while the joints remain largely still. It is used in general fitness, strength training, Pilates, yoga, and sports conditioning. The most familiar version places the body weight on the forearms, elbows, and toes, but beginners may lower their knees to reduce the load.
Common variations include the side plank, reverse plank, and extended plank. A frequent form mistake is allowing the hips to sag or rise too high. Good technique emphasizes a controlled, neutral body line and steady breathing rather than simply holding the position for the longest possible time.