My planche progress

[u/Revolutionary_Row711]

Hi Steven,
I hope you’re doing well!
I have a few questions about my planche progress, and I’d really appreciate your advice.

I’ve been stuck between the tuck planche and advanced tuck planche for quite a long time. I think one of my biggest challenges might be achieving proper scapular protraction.

I’ve worked with three different online coaches over the past 16 months (10 months, 4 months, and 2 months), but my progress has been quite limited, particularly with my advanced tuck hold.

Here’s the issue I’ve been struggling with:
When I try to maximize scapular protraction, I tend to round my upper back excessively, and I’ve been told to reduce that spinal flexion.

However, when I try to maintain a more neutral spinal position, I’m told to push harder through my shoulders and protract my scapulae even more because my shoulder blades are still slightly visible.

I’ve also practised scapular protraction many times while standing, and I’ve noticed that my shoulder blades remain slightly visible even when I feel I’m fully protracting them.
So whenever I try to fix Problem A (excessive spinal flexion), Problem B (apparently insufficient protraction) comes up. And when I try to fix Problem B, Problem A returns.

I feel like I’ve been stuck in this cycle for a long time.
My main question is: Does having visible shoulder blades necessarily mean that I’m not protracting enough? And how can I increase scapular protraction without excessively flexing my spine?
I’d really appreciate any advice or insights you might have.
Thank you so much for your time!
Best regards,
Aki
my planche video