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Reverse Plank Hold

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Reverse Plank Hold.

MediumGlutesCore

About this exercise

An isometric bodyweight hold performed face-up, with the body supported only at the heels and upper back, forming a rigid straight line. The Chinese plank heavily loads the posterior chain — glutes, hamstrings, and lower back — while demanding full-body tension from the core.

How to Perform

  • Lie face-up on the floor with your heels on the ground and your arms at your sides or crossed over your chest
  • Press through your heels and upper back to lift your hips and torso off the floor until your body forms a straight diagonal line from shoulders to heels
  • Squeeze your glutes and brace your core to maintain the rigid position
  • Keep your chin slightly tucked and your neck neutral
  • Hold the position for the target duration without letting your hips sag
  • Lower yourself back to the floor in a controlled manner

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesCore
Secondary
HamstringsLower back

About the Reverse Plank Hold

The Reverse Plank Hold is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.