Reverse Plank vs Criss Cross
Which one fits your Core workout plan?
Contents
Criss Cross is the easier place to start — difficulty 2 of 5 vs 4. Compare Core form cues and when to progress.
Compare the benefits of Reverse Plank and Criss Cross and pick the one that fits your Core workout.
Reverse Plank vs Criss Cross: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Criss Cross more often — 188 sessions compared to 103 for Reverse Plank.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Reverse Plank and Criss Cross differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Reverse Plank and Criss Cross Differ
| What differs | Reverse Plank | Criss Cross |
|---|---|---|
| Muscles worked | abs, triceps, and quads | abs, quads, and glutes |
| Difficulty | 4 of 5 | 2 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 103 sessions | 188 sessions |
How to Do Reverse Plank
Reverse Plank Muscles Worked: Core
Form
- 1. Sit with your knees straight and place your hands behind your shoulders, with your fingertips facing forward for support.
- 2. In that position, lift your hips so that your head, abdomen, and legs form a straight line.
- 3. Be careful not to tilt your head back and maintain tension in your whole body for the given time.
Coach's Tips
- Keep your shoulders and back straight while lifting your body, and engage your core.
For a full Reverse Plank guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Reverse Plank exercise guide.
How to Do Criss Cross
Criss Cross Muscles Worked: Core
Form
- 1. Lie on the floor and raise both legs towards the sky at a 60-degree angle while keeping them together.
- 2. Interlock your fingers behind your head and lift your head off the floor.
- 3. Keep your toes pointed and prepare by looking at your toes.
- 4. Bend your right elbow and think of it touching your left knee while bending your knee and folding your upper body.
- 5. Do the same on the opposite side.
Coach's Tips
- If it's difficult because it's a high-intensity exercise, please substitute it with another exercise.
For a full Criss Cross guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Criss Cross exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Core, Reverse Plank or Criss Cross?
Neither is clearly ahead — Planfit users log both at a similar rate. They both train Core, so the choice comes down to the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
Do Reverse Plank and Criss Cross work the same muscles?
Not quite. Reverse Plank loads abs, triceps, and quads, and Criss Cross loads abs, quads, and glutes.
What equipment do Reverse Plank and Criss Cross need?
Reverse Plank needs bodyweight only, and Criss Cross needs bodyweight only.
Which is easier to start with?
Criss Cross is the easier place to start. Move to Reverse Plank once your form holds up.
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