by Eliza Sterling

One exercise that tests your mettle while simultaneously carving your form is the mountain climber. Sure, it requires some grit, but the plethora of positive impacts it imparts on your health is dizzying!

Nancy Fortier, a third-degree fitness guru and head training delegate at Elite Fitness Society, states, “Mountain climbers train several muscular groups and joints concurrently, including core regions like your back, hips, and abs. Additionally, they target your glutes, legs, and shoulders. Plus, they infuse a cardio element into your regimen, prompting an impressive heart rate surge.”

The mountain climber exercise is also flexible and adaptable to every woman’s specific fitness level. “As you cultivate strength and pick up the speed, your heart works harder,” explains Nancy. “Furthermore, you can intensify the challenge by performing this exercise on a dome balance trainer, wearing ankle weights, or even carrying it out single-handedly. Once you grasp the basics, you’re free to explore countless variations.”

Perfect Your Mountain Climbers in These Steps:

1. Begin in a high plank position, ensuring your wrists are aligned with your shoulders and your core is engaged, creating a straight line from your heels to your shoulders.
2. Tense your abs and swiftly draw your left knee toward your chest, maintaining your shoulder stability above your hands.
3. Return your leg to the starting point and promptly draw your right knee toward your chest.
4. Alternate legs during each repetition, running your legs in and out.

Helpful Hints for Mountain Climbers:

• Ensure your hips are placed beneath your shoulders and your body maintains a straight line from your shoulders to feet throughout the exercise.
• Avoid rounding or arching your lower back as you pull your leg in towards your chest. Maintain a steady, neutral position.
• Initiate the movement by bracing your core and driving your left knee toward your chest, then switch legs so your right knee moves toward your chest.
• Ensure your wrists are positioned directly under your shoulders. Your elbows and arms should maintain strength and straightness.
• To enhance cardio benefits, switch legs rapidly without lifting your bottom. For a more core-focused exercise, slow down and pause as your knee reaches chest-level before switching legs.

Mountain climbers, for its versatility and effectiveness in overall body toning, is definitely a must-try. So ladies, seize your power, and let’s conquer this mountain together!

Read Next:

• Perfect Your Lunge: The Benefits and a Step-by-Step Guide
• A Guide to Performing a Lateral Raise with Perfect Form
• How to Carry Out Triceps Kickback with the Right Form

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