This image below is what is termed the plank. It is an exercise which activates many muscles of the body around what is known as the core muscles.

Is it over yet?

Core muscles sit between the hub of the shoulder to the hip area on our bodies.

This position is also the one position which switches these muscles and works the abdominal muscle that are positioned close to the spine. It’s the position against gravity which brings about the most effect to the body.

However if a lady is top heavy, in my experience it would prove too uncomfortable for her, so would it be appropriate in the early stages?

That remains the decision of the trainer.