Other than actually activating your core (and shooting for intensity over duration), the key to making planks not suck is to keep your mind busy, whether that's lifting limbs, walking around, or moving weights.
This exercise will hammer the trunk when you maintain a rigid plank. And once you've got that down, you can raise the difficulty by increasing the load or moving the weight in front of the hands.
related posts
When I first approached corrective and performance exercise specialist Paul Chek about writing for Testosterone, his first concern was whether I'd choose to soft-peddle his article. In other words, he was worried that I'd try to "dumb down" his material.
This is Lucky 13, a rapid fire Q & A session with a training or nutrition expert who matters. It's fast, furious, and to the point.
Chris Shugart September 29
Stop overarching your lower back with overhead presses. These 4 exercises will strengthen your core, fix your form, and keep you honest.
Every deadlift eventually stalls, and the number one reason is technique related. Here's how to find the right fix for your ailing pull.