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Mountain Climber Lunge

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Mountain Climber Lunge.

MediumGlutesQuadriceps

About this exercise

A dynamic bodyweight exercise that starts in a plank position and combines a mountain-climber knee drive with a deep forward lunge. The movement opens the hip flexors, activates the glutes and quadriceps, and demands continuous core stability as you transition between positions.

How to Perform

  • Begin in a high plank with hands directly under your shoulders and body forming a straight line
  • Drive your right knee forward and plant the right foot just outside your right hand in a low lunge position
  • Hold briefly, feeling the stretch through the left hip flexor
  • Return the right foot back to the plank position
  • Drive the left knee forward and plant the left foot outside your left hand
  • Continue alternating sides for the prescribed number of repetitions
  • Keep your hips low and your core engaged throughout to protect the lower back

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesQuadriceps
Secondary
HamstringsCore

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Mountain Climber Lunge

The Mountain Climber Lunge is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.