Spider Plank

Instructions

1
Start in a plank position with hands shoulder-width apart, arms fully extended, body forming a straight line from head to heels, core engaged, and one leg extended behind you while the other knee is bent with foot planted near your body.
2
Maintain a rigid plank position with neutral spine, shoulders directly over wrists, and core braced. Position your bent leg with knee tracking over hip, foot flat on ground for stability.
3
Slowly lower your hips by bending the supporting arm and allowing the torso to descend toward the ground in a controlled manner while maintaining spinal alignment and keeping the elevated leg extended and parallel to the ground.
4
Drive through the extended leg's quadriceps and planted foot to press back up to the starting plank position, extending the arm fully and returning to neutral spine alignment. Alternate legs with each repetition or complete all reps on one side before switching.

PRIMARY MUSCLESRectus Femoris
SECONDARY MUSCLESVastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis, Iliopsoas, Rectus Abdominis
EQUIPMENTBody weight
DIFFICULTYAdvanced

Overview

The Spider Plank is an incredibly effective Strength movement designed to fully engage the Rectus Femoris. By utilizing Body weight, this exercise emphasizes a deep stretch and a powerful contraction, making it a cornerstone for anyone looking to optimize their Hips development.

Benefits

  • Reduces the likelihood of Hips injuries by reinforcing connective tissue strength.
  • Utilizes Body weight to create sustained mechanical tension, forcing deep muscle adaptation.
  • Significantly enhances the structural integrity and power of the Rectus Femoris.

Pro Tips

Think about pulling from your elbows rather than your hands to better isolate the Rectus Femoris and minimize bicep/forearm takeover.

Muscle Anatomy

The primary driver is the Rectus Femoris. However, the movement also recruits Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis, Iliopsoas, Rectus Abdominis to maintain control of the Body weight.

Exercise Variations

  • Dumbbell Spider Plank
  • Cable Spider Plank
  • Banded Spider Plank

Beginner Tips

If you are new to the Spider Plank , focus on mastering the movement pattern with zero weight before adding Body weight.

Frequently Asked Questions