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Side Mountain Climber

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

MediumCoreObliques

About this exercise

High-intensity bodyweight exercise performed in a plank position where each knee drives diagonally across the body toward the opposite elbow, heavily engaging the obliques and deep core muscles. The continuous pace makes it an effective cardio and core conditioning drill.

How to Perform

  • Start in a high plank position with hands directly under your shoulders and body in a straight line
  • Brace your core and keep your hips level
  • Drive your right knee diagonally across toward your left elbow
  • Return your right foot to the starting position
  • Immediately drive your left knee diagonally toward your right elbow
  • Return your left foot to the starting position
  • Continue alternating at a quick, controlled pace for the prescribed duration

Muscle Activation

Primary
CoreObliques
Secondary
AbsQuadricepsFront shoulders

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Side Mountain Climber

The Side Mountain Climber 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.