Core & Anti-rotation

Tall Plank DB Drag

Anti-rotation coreobliquesshouldersserratus Strength/neural
i.

How to Do It

In a high plank with the feet wide, set a DB just outside one hand. Brace hard, then reach the opposite hand across and drag the DB under the body to the other side, keeping the hips as square and level as possible. Reset and drag it back. Minimize any hip rotation or rocking throughout. Alternate.

ii.

Why It Works

Dragging load across the body under a plank creates a strong anti-rotation demand — the core must resist the hips twisting as the supporting base narrows and the load shifts, building rotary trunk stiffness and shoulder stability.

iii.

Hockey Transfer

Trains the anti-rotation control to stay square while one arm reaches and works across the body — like reaching for a puck or fending an opponent — and the shoulder stability to support the body on one arm during contact.

iv.

Coaching Cues

  • "Hips stay square, don’t rock"
  • "feet wide for stability"
  • "slow drag, stay tight"
v.

Common Mistakes

Hips rotating or rocking with the drag; sagging or piking; feet too narrow

vi.

Progression / Regression

Progression

heavier DB or feet closer

Regression

lighter DB, wider feet, or from the knees

vii.

Primary Muscles

Anti-rotation coreobliquesshouldersserratus
viii.

Energy System

Strength/neural

Ready to train?

Put it to work
on the ice.

This exercise is part of a fully periodized 12-week off-ice program — built by a sport scientist who coaches at the national level.

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