This exercise that Didier Deschamps practices to keep his health at the top!

Didier Deschamps has always been very active. Particularly during the World Cup in Qatar, where he continued to take care of his body. Things are not new, since his arrival on the scene at the head of the France team, Didier Deschamps obeys a real sporting routine from which he never departs.

Her favorite exercise: sheathing, in a plank position on her elbows. And for an hour! almost never flinching. Knowing well that this stubbornness does not necessarily correspond to the norm, the tactician from Bayonne specifies: “I got used to it, to tell the truth! It’s a bit excessive, I admit! But it does me good psychologically and physically. I reassure everyone that if they do half an hour, that’s fine too. »

What is sheathing, specifically the plank exercise?

The plank pose is a challenging exercise that has recently become increasingly popular. It works the core muscles by keeping the body in a static “plank” position, from head to toe. To do this, you need to balance on your toes and forearms, with your weight distributed over your hands and feet. Your abdomen should be tight and at least three quarters of your back should not touch the floor. The stomach pose is very beneficial for the whole body, as it engages almost all muscle groups, from the legs to the shoulders and back to the abdominals. If practiced regularly and correctly, planking can provide several physical health benefits. Let’s find out!

Main benefits of plank exercise.

Most fitness experts agree that planks are more effective than good old sit-ups. Even if you don’t compare them to other core exercises, there are plenty of reasons to do planks regularly, even daily.

1. Development of abdominal muscles.

The plank exercise engages the abdominals to maintain a stable position and to prevent the lower back from sagging, which effectively builds abdominal muscles.

However, it is important to maintain the plank position for as long as possible, using good technique. It is also possible to vary the exercise by changing the position of the elbows or by alternating the plank on the elbows and on the hands. As it is recommended to start with short sets of planks and progress over time by increasing the duration or adding variations.

2. Better posture.

The plank exercise is one of the best exercises you can do to strengthen your core muscles and improve your posture. A strong core of abdominal and back muscles makes it easier to maintain good posture when standing, walking or sitting. The plank works these muscles by engaging them in a static position, which builds strength over time and reduces stress on other parts of the body, such as the lower back. By adding plank exercises to your daily routine, you can begin to create better habits for the way you stand and move throughout the day, which will lead to reduced soreness and improved performance. posture.

3. Stimulation of basal metabolism.

Planking can do wonders for your body in many ways, including increasing basal metabolism. This aspect is important because it allows you to burn more calories than normal, even at rest, which means that you will be able to maintain an optimal weight on a less strict diet. In addition to increasing your basal metabolism, this type of strength training promotes core stability, which helps improve balance and reduce the risk of injury in daily activities. All thanks to a simple daily plank workout!

4. Stronger glutes.

Also add the glutes to the list of muscles worked. This activates the trunk and protects the lower back. Strong glutes support the lower back and alleviate any additional stress it may be under. People who suffer from lower back pain tend to have a weak core, but also less active glutes. Strong glutes give more stability and strength to the hips and pelvic floor.

5. Improved muscular endurance.

Since plank exercises are known to strengthen abdominal muscles, shoulders, back and chest. This technique also increases your ability to withstand longer physical activities such as running or climbing. Acting as a form of resistance training in your core zone, planks increase muscle density and strength while improving muscular endurance over time.

6. Flexibility.

The plank isn’t a typical stretch, but it stretches your muscles and improves your flexibility. It also lengthens the hip flexors, which most people tend to contract from sitting most of the time. Depending on the variations, you can also get a good stretch in the side muscles, spine, feet, ankles and calves.