Suspension Mountain Climbers
Mountain climbers with feet in suspension straps — combined cardio and trunk demand on unstable surface.
Level: Intermediate
Primary: Full Body
Movement: Compound
Type: Aerobic (Cardio) Anaerobic Intervals (HIIT / Bootcamp / Circuit) Light Activity
Equipment: Suspension
Sports: MMA Rock Climbing Wrestling
Target muscles
The hip flexors and quads drive each knee. The shoulders, chest, and triceps hold the plank. The trunk braces. The cardiovascular cost is high.
How to perform
Setup
Place feet in the straps. Assume a push-up position.
Execution
Rapidly drive one knee toward the chest, then switch legs in a running motion. Keep hips level and core tight.
Common mistakes
- Hips piking.
- Letting the straps swing.
- Going too fast.
- Soft trunk.
- Sloppy footwork.
Progressions and regressions
Regress to floor mountain climbers. To progress, work for time.
Programming notes
High-intensity conditioning. 3 sets of 30-45 seconds, twice a week.