Day 4 of 10
Core and cardio

Mountain Climbers

Mountain Climbers is day 4 of the 10-exercise rotation (focus: Core and 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 and core exercise that builds endurance, strength, and coordination while elevating heart rate.

How to do mountain climbers

Mountain Climbers with correct standard form
Standard form
  1. Start in a plank position with hands shoulder-width apart, body in a straight line.
  2. Bring one knee toward your chest while keeping the other leg extended.
  3. Quickly switch legs, bringing the extended leg toward your chest while extending the other.
  4. Continue alternating legs in a running motion while maintaining plank position.
  5. Perform for desired duration or repetitions.

Beginner version

Easier beginner version of Mountain Climbers
Beginner version
  1. Perform the movement at a slower, controlled pace rather than quickly.
  2. Focus on maintaining proper plank form rather than speed.
  3. Take breaks as needed to maintain form and prevent fatigue.
  4. Gradually increase speed and duration as fitness improves.

Form tips

  • Keep your hips level and body in a straight line - don't let them pike up or sag.
  • Engage your core throughout.
  • Bring your knees as high as comfortable while maintaining form.

Muscles worked

Primary: Core (Rectus Abdominis, Obliques), Shoulders, Chest. Secondary: Hip Flexors, Quadriceps, Cardiovascular system.

The 5-minute mountain climbers 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. Mountain Climbers is day 4 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, this page)
  5. Day 5: Squats (Legs)
  6. Day 6: High Knees (Cardio)
  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)