Superman vs Plank Push Up
Which one fits your Core workout plan?
Contents
Superman is the easier place to start — difficulty 2 of 5 vs 4. Compare Core form cues and when to progress.
Compare the benefits of Superman and Plank Push Up and pick the one that fits your Core workout.
Superman vs Plank Push Up: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Superman more often — 548 sessions compared to 311 for Plank Push Up.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Superman and Plank Push Up differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Superman and Plank Push Up Differ
| What differs | Superman | Plank Push Up |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | 2 of 5 | 4 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 548 sessions | 311 sessions |
How to Do Superman
Superman Muscles Worked: Core
Form
- 1. Engage your core and lift both your lower and upper body at the same time.
- 2. Slowly return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- It's not just the arms that should be raised; the entire upper body should be lifted.
For a full Superman guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Superman exercise guide.
How to Do Plank Push Up
Plank Push Up Muscles Worked: Core
Form
- 1. Take the push-up starting position with your arms wider than your shoulders and your feet about hip-width apart.
- 2. Bend one arm and touch the floor with your elbow, then do the same with the opposite arm.
- 3. When lowering your arms, engage your core tightly and maintain a straight line from your head, through your back, to your legs.
- 4. Push up one arm at a time and return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- If your elbows touch the floor, you may experience pain, so I recommend placing a mat or something similar on the floor while exercising.
For a full Plank Push Up guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Plank Push Up exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Core, Superman or Plank Push Up?
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.
What equipment do Superman and Plank Push Up need?
Superman needs bodyweight only, and Plank Push Up needs bodyweight only.
Which is easier to start with?
Superman is the easier place to start. Move to Plank Push Up once your form holds up.
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