Plank Pike Slide with Towel

Instructions

1
Stand with feet hip-width apart on a mat or floor, arms at sides. Maintain neutral spine alignment with shoulders over hips.
2
Position hands behind head with fingers lightly touching temples, or crossed over chest. Engage core and prepare for forward flexion movement.
3
Inhale and slowly roll spine backward, sequentially extending from thoracic to lumbar spine while allowing hips to flex and knees to bend slightly. Lower torso toward thighs in controlled manner, achieving maximum spinal extension and hip flexion.
4
Exhale and powerfully contract rectus abdominis, rolling spine forward sequentially from lumbar to thoracic segments. Drive hips upward and forward, returning torso to starting position while maintaining core tension throughout movement.

PRIMARY MUSCLESRectus Abdominis
SECONDARY MUSCLESIliopsoas, Rectus Femoris, Pectoralis Major, Erector Spinae
EQUIPMENTBody weight
DIFFICULTYIntermediate

Overview

If you want to isolate and overload the Rectus Abdominis, the Plank Pike Slide with Towel is an excellent addition to your routine. The mechanics of this Strength, Cardio exercise specifically bias the Waist, while the use of Body weight allows for a smooth, natural resistance curve.

Benefits

  • Reduces the likelihood of Waist injuries by reinforcing connective tissue strength.
  • Promotes balanced muscular development by effectively recruiting the Rectus Abdominis and associated synergists.
  • Improves overall Waist stability and proprioception during heavy loads.

Pro Tips

Keep your breathing rhythmic: exhale sharply on the concentric push/pull, and inhale smoothly on the way down.

Muscle Anatomy

The primary driver is the Rectus Abdominis. However, the movement also recruits Iliopsoas, Rectus Femoris, Pectoralis Major, Erector Spinae to maintain control of the Body weight.

Exercise Variations

  • Dumbbell Plank Pike Slide with Towel
  • Cable Plank Pike Slide with Towel
  • Banded Plank Pike Slide with Towel

Frequently Asked Questions