Functional Restoration Practice Test

According to McGill, core stabilization exercises such as prone plank should be held for up to how long?

Up to 60 seconds Up to 30 seconds Up to 15 seconds Up to 8 seconds

Correct Answer:

Up to 8 seconds

Explanation:

The idea being tested is how long McGill recommends holding a prone plank during core stabilization training. McGill emphasizes brief, controlled holds to keep the spine stable and ensure the deep stabilizers (like the transverse abdominis and multifidus) are activated with proper technique. Holding for about eight seconds allows you to maintain a neutral spine, avoid compensatory movements, and prevent fatigue from taking over to degrade form. By using several short holds with rest, you build endurance without encouraging poor patterning or excessive lumbar stress that can come with longer holds. Longer holds—such as 30, 60 seconds or more—tend to compromise technique and recruit superficial muscles, which is why the eight-second guideline is preferred.

Access more questions from this quiz

Continue to Functional Restoration Practice Test for more practice questions and the full quiz experience.

Access More Questions