Star Side Plank

Also known as: Side Plank (Star)

Hold a side-plank while extending the top arm and top leg outward to form a star, placing demand on the obliques and lateral core muscles. Maintain a straight line from shoulders to feet throughout the hold.

How to do the Star Side Plank#

  1. Lie on your side and place your bottom forearm on the ground with the elbow under the shoulder and your legs stacked.
  2. Press through the forearm and lift your hips so your body forms a straight line from head to heels.
  3. Reach your top arm up or slightly back and lift your top leg until they are roughly level with your torso to create the star shape.
  4. Keep your ribs pulled in, hips elevated, and breathe steadily for the chosen duration.
  5. Lower your hips and limbs with control and switch sides.

Muscles worked#

  • Primary: Obliques (External & Internal Obliques), Abs (Rectus Abdominis), Abductors (Gluteus Medius & Minimus (Hip Abductors))
  • Secondary: Glutes (Gluteus Maximus), Side delts (Lateral Deltoid)

Common mistakes#

Track the Star Side Plank in Gript: your previous sets in view while you train, records detected automatically, and an estimated 1RM chart from every hard set.

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Frequently asked questions#

What muscles does the Star Side Plank work?

The Star Side Plank primarily works the obliques, abs, abductors. The glutes, side delts assist as secondary muscles — they stabilise the movement and take over when the main target fatigues. If you feel it mostly in the glutes, side delts, lighten the load and slow the lowering phase.

What equipment do I need for the Star Side Plank?

None. The Star Side Plank is a bodyweight exercise, so all you need is enough space to move through the full range of motion.

Is the Star Side Plank suitable for beginners?

Not as one of your first exercises. The Star Side Plank is rated intermediate, so it suits lifters who already have a few months of consistent training behind them. Build the pattern on an easier variation first, then come back to it.

What are good alternatives to the Star Side Plank?

Air Bike, Bicycle Crunch, Bicycle Crunch Raised Legs all train the same primary muscles as the Star Side Plank. Pick whichever one matches the equipment in front of you.