How Many Calories Do Planks Burn?

How Many Calories Do Planks Burn?

Planks are not a high-calorie burning exercise. On average, planks burn around 2 to 5 calories per minute for the average person. The actual number of calories burned can vary based on factors such as body weight, duration of the exercise, and individual metabolism.

Plank Calorie Burn Calculator

Plank Calorie Burn Calculator





Here's a table estimating the approximate calorie burn for planks based on different durations:

Plank DurationCalories Burned
30 seconds2 - 5 calories
1 minute5 - 10 calories
2 minutes10 - 20 calories
3 minutes15 - 30 calories
5 minutes25 - 50 calories


Planks are a popular core-strengthening exercise that engage multiple muscle groups, including the abs, back, shoulders, and glutes. While planks can help build strength and stability, they are not a high-intensity cardiovascular exercise that burns a significant number of calories. The primary purpose of planks is to improve core strength and stability rather than being a calorie-burning exercise.

The exact number of calories burned during planks can vary depending on factors such as your body weight, duration of the exercise, and individual metabolism. However, as a general estimate, planks typically burn around 2 to 5 calories per minute for an average person. This is a relatively low number compared to more intense cardio exercises like running or cycling.

It's important to note that incorporating planks into a well-rounded fitness routine that includes cardiovascular exercises and a healthy diet is key for overall calorie burn and weight management.

Is The plank good for losing weight?


While planks are a beneficial exercise for core strength and stability, they are not primarily designed for weight loss. Planks primarily target the muscles of the core, including the abs, back, shoulders, and glutes. While they can help tone and strengthen these muscles, they do not provide significant calorie-burning or cardiovascular benefits compared to high-intensity exercises like running, cycling, or aerobic workouts.

Weight loss is typically achieved through a combination of a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise that includes both cardiovascular exercises and strength training. Planks can be a valuable addition to an overall fitness routine, but for effective weight loss, it is important to incorporate a variety of exercises that promote calorie burn and engage multiple muscle groups.

Is 1 minute plank enough for weight loss?

While performing a 1-minute plank can be beneficial for core strength and stability, it may not be sufficient on its own for significant weight loss. Planks primarily target the muscles of the core and do not provide a high level of calorie burn compared to aerobic exercises or strength training involving larger muscle groups.

To effectively lose weight, it is generally recommended to combine regular exercise with a healthy, balanced diet. This includes incorporating cardiovascular exercises (such as running, cycling, or swimming) that elevate your heart rate and promote calorie burn. Strength training exercises, including planks, can be part of a well-rounded fitness routine to increase muscle mass and overall metabolism.

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Does 2 minute plank burn belly fat?


Performing a 2-minute plank can help strengthen your core muscles, but it alone is not sufficient for burning belly fat specifically. Spot reduction, which is the idea of targeting fat loss in a specific area of the body, is not supported by scientific evidence. Fat loss occurs throughout the body as a result of creating a calorie deficit through a combination of exercise and a balanced diet.

To effectively reduce belly fat, it is important to focus on overall weight loss and body fat reduction. This can be achieved by incorporating a combination of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and adopting a calorie-controlled diet. These lifestyle changes can help create a calorie deficit and promote fat loss throughout the body, including the abdominal area.

Remember that everyone's body is different, and the rate and distribution of fat loss may vary. It's essential to approach weight loss and fat reduction with patience, consistency, and a comprehensive approach that includes both exercise and proper nutrition. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian can provide personalized guidance and support in achieving your weight loss goals.

How much fat does a 2 minute plank burn?


On average, a 2-minute plank may burn approximately 6 to 10 calories for the average person. However, it is important to note that the exact amount can vary depending on factors such as body weight, muscle mass, and individual metabolism. Additionally, the primary benefit of planks is strengthening the core muscles rather than significant calorie or fat burn. To achieve effective fat loss, it is recommended to combine planks with other forms of exercise, such as cardiovascular workouts and strength training, along with a healthy diet.

The calorie burn during a plank is relatively modest compared to more intense cardiovascular exercises. On average, planks burn around 2 to 5 calories per minute for the average person. Fat burn is also influenced by the overall calorie deficit created through a combination of exercise and a balanced diet.

To effectively reduce body fat, including belly fat, it is important to focus on overall weight loss and body fat reduction. This can be achieved by combining cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and maintaining a calorie-controlled diet. By creating a consistent calorie deficit, the body will gradually burn stored fat over time.

It's important to note that fat loss occurs throughout the body rather than in specific targeted areas. Individual fat loss distribution varies based on genetics and body composition. Patience, consistency, and a holistic approach to fitness and nutrition are key to achieving sustainable and healthy fat loss.

Why is a 1 minute plank so hard?


A 1-minute plank can feel challenging for several reasons:

  1. Core muscle engagement: Planks primarily target the muscles of the core, including the abdominal muscles, lower back, and glutes. Holding a plank position requires these muscles to engage and work isometrically to maintain stability. If your core muscles are relatively weak or if you're not accustomed to holding a plank position, it can make the exercise feel difficult.
  2. Muscle fatigue: As you hold a plank, the muscles in your core start to fatigue due to the sustained contraction. This can lead to a burning sensation and a feeling of muscular exhaustion, making it challenging to maintain the position for a full minute.
  3. Proper form and alignment: Maintaining proper form during a plank is crucial for maximizing the benefits and minimizing strain on other parts of the body. It requires proper alignment of the spine, engagement of the core, and stability in the shoulders and hips. If your form is compromised, it can make the exercise more difficult and increase the strain on other muscles.
  4. Mental endurance: Holding a plank for a full minute requires mental focus and endurance. It can be mentally challenging to push through the discomfort and maintain concentration during the exercise.
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To make planks easier, you can gradually increase your strength and endurance by starting with shorter durations and progressively increasing the time. Additionally, focusing on proper form, breathing steadily, and engaging the core muscles can help improve your plank performance over time.

What happens if you do a 1 minute plank for 30 days?

Performing a 1-minute plank daily for 30 days can lead to increased core strength, improved posture, enhanced overall stability, increased endurance, and potential calorie burn. Consistency and proper form are key. However, individual results may vary based on factors such as fitness level and overall lifestyle.


If you consistently perform a 1-minute plank every day for 30 days, you can expect several potential benefits:

  1. Increased core strength: Planks are an effective exercise for strengthening the muscles of the core, including the abdominals, lower back, and glutes. Over the course of 30 days, you may notice improved core strength and stability.
  2. Improved posture: Holding a plank requires proper alignment of the spine and engagement of the core muscles. Regular plank practice can help improve your posture by strengthening the muscles that support the spine.
  3. Enhanced overall stability: Planks not only target the core but also engage other muscles, such as the shoulders, chest, and legs, to maintain stability. As you progress with daily planks, you may experience improved overall body stability and balance.
  4. Increased endurance: Initially, holding a 1-minute plank can be challenging. However, with consistent practice over 30 days, you can develop increased muscular endurance, allowing you to hold the position with more ease and for longer durations.
  5. Potential calorie burn: While planks are not primarily focused on burning calories, they do contribute to a small calorie burn. Regular plank practice, combined with a healthy diet and a well-rounded exercise routine, can aid in overall calorie expenditure and potentially support weight management goals.

It's important to note that the specific results may vary depending on individual factors such as fitness level, body composition, and overall lifestyle. Additionally, incorporating other exercises and maintaining a balanced diet will further enhance the benefits gained from plank exercises.

Is 1 minute plank too much?

Whether or not a 1-minute plank is too much depends on your current fitness level and core strength. For some individuals, holding a 1-minute plank may be challenging, while for others, it may be manageable or even relatively easy.

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If you are just starting out or have a weaker core, a 1-minute plank can be quite demanding. In such cases, you can begin with shorter durations, such as 20-30 seconds, and gradually work your way up to longer durations.

It's important to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself beyond your capabilities, especially if you experience pain or discomfort. Building core strength takes time and consistency, so it's more beneficial to focus on maintaining proper form and gradually increasing the duration over time rather than attempting a longer plank that compromises form or causes excessive strain.

FAQs


How many calories does a 2-minute plank burn?

A 2-minute plank typically burns around 10 to 20 calories.

How many calories do you burn planking for 1 minute?

Planking for 1 minute burns approximately 5 to 10 calories.

How many calories does a 60-second plank burn?

A 60-second plank generally burns around 5 to 10 calories.

How many calories do squats burn?

Squats can burn around 5 to 8 calories per minute, depending on factors like intensity and body weight.

How many calories does cardio burn?

The number of calories burned during cardio exercises varies based on factors like exercise type, intensity, and duration. On average, cardio exercises can burn around 200 to 600 calories per hour, depending on the intensity level.

How to burn 600 calories in 30 minutes?

To burn 600 calories in 30 minutes, you would need to engage in high-intensity activities like running, cycling, or aerobic workouts.

How many calories does a push-up burn?

Push-ups burn approximately 6 to 10 calories per minute, depending on factors like body weight and intensity.

How many calories does a 5-minute plank burn?

A 5-minute plank typically burns around 25 to 50 calories, depending on body weight and intensity.

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