Achieving a visible six-pack involves both strengthening your core muscles and reducing body fat in the abdominal region. The plank is an excellent exercise for building core strength and stability. But when it comes to burning calories, the amount of energy expended during a 5-minute plank can vary based on a few factors.
First, your body weight plays a role. The more you weigh, the more calories you will burn during any activity, including planks. For instance, a person weighing 65 kg (143.3 lbs) might burn a different amount of calories compared to someone who weighs 80 kg (176.4 lbs).
Second, the intensity of your plank matters. If you’re doing a dynamic plank variation that involves movement, such as plank jacks or plank to push-up, you’ll burn more calories than a static hold. Your form and muscle engagement during the plank also influence the calorie burn. A properly engaged plank that recruits multiple muscle groups, including the shoulders, chest, abdominals, and quads, will utilize more energy.
On average, a static plank may burn approximately 2 to 5 calories per minute, depending on the factors mentioned. Thus, a 5-minute plank can burn somewhere between 10 to 25 calories. However, it’s essential to note that this is a rough estimate, and the actual number can vary based on individual differences.
Remember, while a plank does offer some caloric burn, its primary benefit lies in strengthening the core muscles. If your goal is to burn more calories, consider incorporating a mix of cardiovascular exercises and strength training into your routine, in addition to core exercises like the plank. This holistic approach will not only help reduce body fat but will also sculpt and tone your muscles, bringing you closer to that desired six-pack appearance.