Mountain Climbers
Mountain climbers are a dynamic, full-body exercise that combines cardio and strength training. They target your core, shoulders, chest, and legs while boosting your heart rate, making them excellent for building endurance and burning calories. The movement mimics climbing a mountain, with a rapid “knee-driving” motion that challenges stability and coordination.
Mountain climbers are also very versatile. You can use them as part of a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) routine, a warm-up, or a core-strengthening session. They require no equipment, which makes them perfect for both home workouts and gym circuits.
How-To:
- Place your hands directly under your shoulders and extend your legs behind you. Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels. Engage your core and keep your hips level.
- Bring one knee toward your chest, then quickly switch legs, as if you’re “running” in place while staying in the plank position. Keep your movements controlled but fast enough to elevate your heart rate.
- Keep your shoulders over your hands, your core tight, and your back flat. For beginners, aim for 10–15 reps per leg (20–30 total) and do 2–3 sets with 30–60 seconds of rest between sets.
*Never do an exercise that causes you pain*