Pallof Press

Anti-rotation core work — trains the trunk to refuse to move, which is what it actually does in sport.

DIFFICULTY
Beginner
EQUIPMENT
Band · Machine
PRIMARY MUSCLES
Obliques · Transverse Abdominis
ALSO WORKS
Abs · Glutes
HOW TO DO IT
  1. 01Stand side-on to a cable or anchored band at chest height.
  2. 02Hold the handle at your sternum with both hands, feet shoulder-width.
  3. 03Brace, then press the handle straight out in front of you.
  4. 04Resist the pull towards the anchor, hold 2–3 seconds, and return.
COACHING CUES
  1. 01The rep is the resistance, not the press.
  2. 02Squeeze the glutes to stop the hips rotating.
  3. 03Step further from the anchor to make it harder.
COMMON MISTAKES
  1. 01Letting the torso rotate towards the anchor.
  2. 02Pressing with the arms while the trunk goes slack.
  3. 03Loading it so heavy you can't stay square.

Note: Reference material, not a prescription. Load, volume and whether this movement suits you at all depends on your assessment — if something hurts, stop and get it looked at.

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