Day 6 of 10
Cardio

High Knees

High Knees is day 6 of the 10-exercise rotation (focus: Cardio). Here you do it as four 60-second intervals with a work/rest split you choose, then a final 60-second push, and a beginner version is available.

A dynamic cardio exercise that elevates heart rate, builds leg strength, and improves coordination and balance.

How to do high knees

High Knees with correct standard form
Standard form
  1. Stand upright with feet hip-width apart, arms at your sides.
  2. Run in place while driving your knees up toward your chest as high as possible.
  3. Pump your arms in a running motion to maintain momentum.
  4. Land softly on the balls of your feet with each step.
  5. Continue for desired duration at a steady or increasing pace.

Beginner version

Easier beginner version of High Knees
Beginner version
  1. Perform the movement at a slower, controlled pace rather than quickly.
  2. Lift your knees to a comfortable height rather than trying to reach your chest.
  3. Focus on maintaining balance and control.
  4. Take breaks as needed and gradually increase duration and intensity.

Form tips

  • Keep your torso upright and core engaged.
  • Drive your knees up explosively while maintaining balance.
  • Land softly on the balls of your feet to reduce impact.

Muscles worked

Primary: Hip Flexors, Quadriceps, Glutes, Calves. Secondary: Core, Cardiovascular system.

The 5-minute high knees workout

Four one-minute intervals with a work/rest split you choose (from 20 seconds on and 40 off, up to 50 on and 10 off), then a final 60-second push. High Knees is day 6 of the 10-day rotation.

Start the workout

Go at your own pace, and stop if anything hurts or you feel dizzy. Safety info

All 10 exercises

  1. Day 1: Plank (Core)
  2. Day 2: Reverse Lunges (Legs)
  3. Day 3: Chair Dips (Upper body)
  4. Day 4: Mountain Climbers (Core and cardio)
  5. Day 5: Squats (Legs)
  6. Day 6: High Knees (Cardio, this page)
  7. Day 7: Push-Ups (Upper body)
  8. Day 8: Wall Sits (Legs)
  9. Day 9: Jumping Jacks (Cardio)
  10. Day 10: Burpees (Full body)