1 / 6Mountain Climber
From a high plank, you drive your knees toward your chest one after the other, fast. It works the core and raises the heart rate at the same time.
CoreCardioShoulders
- Level
- Beginner
- Equipment
- Bodyweight
- Main muscle
- Core
- Also works
- Cardio, Shoulders
- Beginner sets
- 3 × 30–45 sec
- Rest
- 30 seconds
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See the app · coming soonHow to do it
- 1Start in a high plank with your hands under your shoulders.
- 2Drive one knee toward your chest.
- 3Switch legs quickly, like running in place.
- 4Keep your hips low and your back straight.
Common mistakes
- Letting the hips bounce up high
- Moving the hands or letting the shoulders drift back
- Going so fast the form falls apart
Tips
- Keep your shoulders right over your hands
- Keep the hips level with your shoulders
- Start slow, then speed up while the plank stays steady
Questions
Are mountain climbers cardio or core?
Both: the plank works the core and the fast legs raise the heart rate.
How long should I do them?
Try 3 rounds of 20 to 30 seconds with short rests.
More Core exercises
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