Cross-Body Mountain Climber

Body region

• Core
• Shoulders

Muscles

Main

• Rectus Abdominis
• External Oblique
• Internal Oblique

Helps

• Deltoid
• Serratus Anterior
• Iliopsoas

Holds

• Transversus Abdominis
• Gluteus Medius

Technique

1. Start in a high plank with hands under shoulders and the body in a straight line.
2. Brace your abs and pull one knee diagonally toward the opposite elbow.
3. Return the foot to the floor and switch legs in a smooth rhythm.
4. Keep the hips low and the shoulders steady.

Cues

• Drive the knee across the body from the abs.
• Keep the hands planted and the hips level.

Common mistakes

• Letting the hips bounce up high.
• Letting the shoulders shift back and forth.
• Going so fast that the knees do not cross the body.

Alternatives

• Mountain Climber
• Plank Hip Twist