Illustrated guide to the Scorpion Walks exercise

Scorpion Walks

Plank with foot crossing under and toward opposite hand, walking forward — combined trunk control with rotational mobility.

Level: Beginner

Primary: Cardio Full Body

Movement: Compound

Tags: Animal Movement

Type: Flexibility (Dynamic Stretching) Functional Fitness (Obstacle & Hybrid) Primal Movments (Animal Flow-QMT Specifics)

Equipment: Body Weight

Sports: Gymnastics MMA Wrestling

Target muscles

The trunk and obliques control the rotation. The hip mobility of the rotating side is challenged. The shoulders and chest hold the plank position.

How to perform

Setup

Begin in a high plank position.

Execution

Bring one foot up and across the body, rotating the hip and tapping the foot toward the opposite hand. Return it. Repeat on the other side. Walk the hands forward as you go.

Common mistakes

  • Hips dropping.
  • Rushing.
  • Not bringing the foot fully across.
  • Forgetting to alternate.
  • Sloppy walk forward.

Progressions and regressions

Regress to plank scorpions in place. To progress, work for distance.

Programming notes

Combined movement. 3 sets of 30-60 seconds, twice a week.

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