A staple of many core workouts, most runners will be familiar with the side plank exercise. But you may be surprised to learn that it's one of the best exercises you can do for working your deep core.

Here are 5 plank variations that can boost your metabolism, burn calories, and tone your body faster than the basic hold. 1.

However, if your goal is to strengthen the entirety of your core and work the smaller muscles to support you in big lifts, you might want to consider other variations of a plank. Lie on your right ...