| Well, if you want to learn upper body strength, a plange is NOT the best way to start off. A plange basically looks like this: arms straight (locked), planted shoulder-width apart, body perfectly horizantal, legs split or closed. Looks sort of like a horizontal handstand. This is one of the hardest floor poses you can do, especially the closed-leg one. But what I suggest you do is start off with easier poses. If you can't already do it, start with a turtle or cricket position. If you can already do that, then try doing those two poses and pushing up to a handstand, and repeating. If that's too easy, then try straight-arm poses, like UFO (buddha) or air turtle positions. Or you can do an "L" position, which is where you're sitting with your legs together in front of you, and then with your hands to your sides, pick yourself up and hold it as long as you can. Or is that also too easy? Then try this. Do a UFO or air turtle position and push up to a handstand. Try to keep your arms as straight as possible. Or if you're really flexible, keep your legs straight when you do this. After you can do all that, you're ready for planges and beyond. |