Getting that desired six-pack is not the only reason to include the plank into your exercise routine.

A strong core stabilises your hips and pelvis when you run, enabling you to go faster and further.

In a study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, runners who did six weeks of core training had significantly faster 5K times than those who didn’t.

When your core is weak, the leg muscles fatigue at a much faster rate. Your body com­pensates by engaging other muscles to pick up the slack. Eventually this can lead to muscle-tissue breakdown and an increased risk for injury.

To reap the benefits, incorporate core exercises, like planks, into your strength-training routine two to three times a week.