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Balance Trainer Mountain Climber

Intermediate
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This is a dynamic plank variation using a balance trainer, targeting the abs and hip flexors for improved core stability and cardiovascular conditioning.

About Exercise

Equipment

Balance Trainer

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Abs, Hip Flexors

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Endurance
Stability
Conditioning

Training Style

HIIT
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Abs

10/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Hip Flexors

8/10

Iliopsoas

Shoulders

5/10

Anterior Delts, Medial Delts

Programming

Typical Rep Range

15-30 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-90 seconds • Use shorter rest periods for conditioning goals.

How to Perform

Place the balance trainer dome-side down. Assume a high plank position with hands gripping the outside edges of the platform, stacking shoulders directly over the wrists.

  1. Establish a rigid plank position, keeping hips level and core tightly braced.
  2. Quickly drive one knee toward your chest without rounding your lower back.
  3. Immediately switch legs in a quick, continuous running motion.
  4. Maintain rapid speed while keeping the hips low and stable throughout the set.
  5. Continue alternating legs for the desired number of reps or duration.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Hips low and steady.
  • Drive the knees fast.
  • Brace your midline.
  • Do not lift hips.

Breathing

Inhale during the starting plank position; maintain tight core bracing and breathe rhythmically throughout the movement.

Tempo

1-0-1

Range of Motion

Move the knee forward as far as possible without allowing the lower back to round or the hips to pike upward.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Stop immediately if wrist pain occurs.
  • Ensure the balance trainer is stable on a non-slip surface.

Spotting

Not required.

Common Mistakes

  • Letting the hips pike too high.
  • Rounding the lower back.
  • Allowing the trainer to shift.

When to Avoid

  • Acute wrist or shoulder injury
  • Severe spinal instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate wrist and shoulder flexibility for plank position

Build Up First

  • Competency holding a standard high plank for 60 seconds

Also known as

Balance Trainer Speed Climbers, BOSU Mountain Climber

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