Doing planks are way more than getting a strong tummy.
Is there any hope my tummy could be salvaged by taking on a plank challenge? Two pregnancies, both Caesarians and many un-planked years later, I was the bearer of incredibly flabby, mushy abs.
A life-long exerciser — cardio is my go-to choice. I was a runner for over 20 years, from my ‘30’s to ’50s until my knees gave out. These days hiking and pickleball fill the aerobic bill nicely.
I’ve never loved strength training though I endured through that as well, albeit reluctantly and sporadically.
When Covid hit, I was determined to change my muscle-building routine and take it more seriously. I have consistently lifted weights two to three times a week for 91 weeks. Astonishing for me, a dedicated strength-training adversary. I know the benefits — still, I wasn’t motivated as I didn’t enjoy it. And it was darn hard! Being housebound during the pandemic, I was resolved to make a change.
My biceps and shoulders have built up so that it’s noticeable, and I’m pleased. My abs, however, lagged.
Enter Darshak Rana, a writer for Better Humans, and his article outlining the 30-Day Plank Challenge. Hmmm. Could I accept this challenge, too? Is it possible my droopy, jelly-like tummy could firm the heck up as my biceps did? Or am I too old? Too female? Too far-gone to salvage my abdominal muscles?
To hell with all that. I began the challenge on January 1.
Whenever I’d attempted a plank previously, the most I could hold it was for about 30 seconds. I was determined to surpass that on day 1. And I’ll be damned if I didn’t. I held the plank position — correctly — for one minute and 11 seconds. I was shocked beyond belief.
I had no idea that a simple challenge, as Darshak proposed, could energize and motivate me so.
I am now on day 13, having added a few seconds daily to the previous days’. I rest a few seconds, then perform another plank immediately after, to complete two minutes.
I look forward to firmer abs, more muscular core, and shoulders — as all those parts are engaged.
Another benefit of this challenge, even a few days in, is the mental strength I’ve gained, knowing I’ve taken on a task that before seemed unattainable. I also have achieved a level of pride, proving to no one but myself that I can improve a body part that I had forsaken and lost hope could ever firm up.
Since 2022 began, have you taken on a physical, health, or fitness challenge to support your lifestyle goals? Or perhaps you’ve decided to make changes in other areas of your life? Relationships, career, or other domains?
Maybe, instead of goals, you’ve set a general plan to live with intention — appreciating life and every moment.
Whatever your plan, we all have an inner reservoir of strength we can tap into to achieve our dreams.
Like most of you, I’m not new to challenges. Having reached the Third Third of my life, many enigmas have crossed my path, some tough ones. This one is slight compared to others. Still, I’m reaping the rewards of taking on this challenge and look forward to the final results.
Thank you, Darshak! I will report back at the end of the 30 days, and perhaps I, too, will continue beyond that period.
No comments:
Post a Comment