DIAGONAL MOUNTAIN CLIMBER
Adding a cross-body knee pull to the classic mountain climber adds a dynamic stability challenge. A favorite of my clients in studio, the diagonal mountain climber will take you to the summit.
progression
| LEVEL 1: | Plank | |
| LEVEL 2: | Diagonal Mountain Climber |
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| LEVEL 3: | Flutter-Up |
Position your hands on the floor slightly wider than shoulder width apart. Rise up onto your toes and engage the core to form a straight line between your ankles and head.
Pull your left knee forward and across your body to the back of the right elbow. Make sure your knee comes all the way across the body to maximize engagement of the core.
Extend the left leg and simultaneously pull the right knee toward the left elbow. Continue alternating legs, moving as rapidly as possible while maintaining proper form.
challenge
Try elevating your hands on a small step, bench, or a stability ball to increase the difficulty of this exercise.
V-UP
The V-up takes its name from the shape your body forms during the exercise. This advanced ab exercise engages the six-pack abdominal muscles, the erector muscles of the spine, and the hip flexors. V-ups require great coordination as well as balance.
progression
| LEVEL 1: | Pike | |
| LEVEL 2: | V-Up | |
| LEVEL 3: | V-Up Doubles |
Lie on your back with arms and legs straight. Extend your arms above your head.
In one fluid motion, simultaneously lift your torso and legs. Extend your arms so they are parallel to the legs. Control the body back to the starting position and repeat.