And, according toHealthline, planking can even improve your posture too.

This challenging workout strengthens your back, shoulders, chest, neck, and abs when done correctly.

It also allows you to effortlessly remain upright.

Woman doing a plank

Without a strong core, exercises such as deadlifts and squats can lead to injury, asCleveland Clinicwarns.

According toLive Strong, this is the most common mistake people make when attempting this exercise.

As your core strains from the muscles being worked, your back typically jumps in to support it.

Woman doing a plank exercise

However, this continuous exercise mishap can lead tolower back pain.

It’s also counterproductive, as when done properly planks can strengthen back muscles.

The alignment of your back is a key part of executing the plank correctly.

Woman planking with trainer

Another common mistake that throws this off is lifting your butt.

Having your butt higher than your shoulders is not the proper way to engage your glutes.

Neither is bending it too close to the floor, perGreatist.

Always keep your spine aligned.

Start in a push-up position.

Squeeze your thighs and glutes while positioning them in alignment with your back and neck.

It helps to look at the floor to help keep your head in the proper position, too.

Crucially, if you feel any sharp pain, end the exercise.

Overdoing it will cause more harm than good.