Mountain-Climber Bridge
Strengthen your core & boost cardio! This dynamic exercise combines the bridge & mountain climber for a full-body burn.
The Mountain-Climber Bridge is a compound exercise that mainly works the core, with help from the quads and glutes & hips. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Mountain-Climber Bridge Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques
Secondary
Quads (quadriceps femoris); Glutes (gluteus maximus)
Mountain-Climber Bridge Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Mountain-Climber Bridge
Bridge Mountain Climber Instructions
Starting Position
Begin in a Plank Position: Start on your hands and toes, with your body in a straight line from head to heels. Your hands should be shoulder-width apart and directly below your shoulders. Ensure your core is engaged, and your body is aligned.
Transition to Bridge: Lower your hips towards the ground, bending your knees slightly. Keeping your hands planted, lift your hips to form a bridge position. Your body should form a straight line from your shoulders to your knees.
Movement
1. Mountain Climbers:
From the bridge position, shift your weight onto your hands as you lift one knee towards your chest. Keep your core tight and maintain your balance.
Quickly switch legs, bringing the other knee towards your chest while extending the first leg back to the starting plank position.
Continue alternating legs in a controlled, quick manner, as if you are running in place.
Key Tips
Maintain a steady rhythm and avoid letting your hips sag.
Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid straining your neck.
Focus on using your core muscles to stabilize your body while performing the movement.
Ending Position
Conclude the exercise by returning to the starting plank position.
Rest and repeat for several sets, based on your fitness level.
Repetitions
Aim for 10-15 repetitions per leg, or perform for 30-45 seconds.
Safety Precautions
If you feel discomfort in your back or any joints, modify the movement by lowering your knee to the mat or reducing the speed of your repetitions.
Mountain-Climber Bridge FAQs
What muscles does the Mountain-Climber Bridge work?
The Mountain-Climber Bridge mainly works the core, with help from the quads and glutes & hips. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and obliques.
What equipment do you need for the Mountain-Climber Bridge?
None. The Mountain-Climber Bridge is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
Is the Mountain-Climber Bridge a compound exercise?
Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.
What workout day should the Mountain-Climber Bridge go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Mountain-Climber Bridge variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the BOSU™ Ball Mountain-Climber, Bench Elevated Mountain-Climber, Inchworm & Mountain-Climber and Across-Body Mountain-Climber.
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