Continuously testing your core stability and strength is one of the most significant fitness measures.

Theside plankis one of the best movements for this.

It’s a full-body challenge that reveals whether your core is built for absolute strength and endurance.

fit woman doing side plank exercise at home in a bright room

Photo: Canva. Design: Eat This, Not That!

So, how long can you hold a side plank?

But what’s the benchmark for elite core endurance?

And how can you improve your hold time?

fit, muscular man doing side plank with leg raise, concept of floor workouts to improve muscular endurance

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Let’s break it down.

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The side plank tests your core endurance and full-body stability.

While plank records exist (the world record for a side plank is over four hours!

woman doing side plank exercise, concept of HIIT workouts for love handles

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), most people don’t need to hold one that long to prove elite strength.

Dial in your training to perfect technique and take your strength to the next level.

The side plank is a full-body stability challenge that reveals weaknesses in your core, shoulders, and hips.

woman side plank leg lift, concept of lower-belly strength workout for women

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Want to hold a side plank longer and build bulletproof core strength?

Here’s how:6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

1.

Strengthen Your Core Endurance

Your core needs to handle sustained tension.

Try these:

2.

Build Your Oblique & Hip Strength

Stronger obliques and glutes mean better side plank endurance.

Add these moves:

3.

Improve Shoulder & Upper-Body Stability

Weak shoulders will fatigue before your core does.

Fix that with:

4.

Perfect Your Side Plank Form

Holding a side plank longer doesn’t matter if your form breaks down.

Mix in traditional side planks, and ensure you’re bracing your core during strength exercises.

So, how long can you hold a side plank?

Test yourself, track your progress, and challenge your core like never before.

If you want elite-level core strength, it’s time to plank up