Mountain Climbers

Mountain Climbers not only improve your upper body, core and leg strength but can also be used as a cardiovascular exercise – in short, it’s one exercise that does it all. Start in a straight-arm plank forming a line from head to heels. Keep your abs engaged and don’t let your hips droop, but also don’t let that butt stick up in the air. Maintaing this plank position, jump one foot up toward your chest then jump and switch feet (like climbing, but fast). Once you get the hang of it pick up the pace and sustain it for 30-60”.

Notes: Keep your hands under your shoulders throughout (watch that your hands aren’t above the shoulders as this will put stress on the shoulder joint). Push the shoulders down away from your ears and keep breathing throughout.  Modifications: Easier:Bring one knee to the chest, pause, then place that foot back before bringing the other leg up. This will take out the high impact as well as decrease the cardio intensity. Harder:  Pick up the pace so the leg switches are faster. Increase the time or do multiple reps of this exercise. Have your feet up on an incline (such as a step or stair).