We've Got Places to Go and Mountains to Climb
What It Is
Mountain Climbers are a dynamic and power exercise performed with knee drives of the legs from a plank position.
Why It's Important
Has a Variety of Uses
Mountain Climbers can be used as an exercise for warm-ups and in high intensity sets. The movement can be easily modified and works several muscle groups to promote blood flow. Mountain Climbers also use power for more intensified variation which will elevate the heart rate for HIIT workouts.
Work Knee ROM
Exercises like mountain climbers that contain a knee drive work on both flexion and extension of the knee joint. By doing a mountain climber in a plank position you will decrease the load on the knee joint. This allows you to work on form, function, and range of motion of the knee.
How To Do It
You will keep your core engaged throughout the entire exercise; while maintaining proper body alignment. Start in a straight arm plank position; hands under shoulders and feet shoulder width; straight line from shoulders, hips, and feet. Drive right knee toward chest; then alternate with the left leg for one repetition.
Modify It
Increase the angle of the exercise with a bench or wall to decrease the amount of body weight placed on the shoulders.
Add a push-up and burpee exercise between every two to four knee drive phases to increase the difficulty.
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Sole Shaping Blog is written by a nationally certified personal trainer, however, the topics and information given might not be specific for your health and wellness needs. The blog is intended for informational purposes only and not direct health advice. Consult with a doctor before beginning an exercise program or changing your nutritional diet. The blog is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge, but omissions, errors or mistakes may occur.
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