Incline Mountain Climber

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
bench
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A dynamic calisthenics exercise performed on an incline bench that combines core stability with upper body conditioning.

Instructions

  1. Set up in a plank position with your hands on an incline bench set to a moderate angle.
  2. Your body should form a straight line from head to heels.
  3. This is your starting position.
  4. Bring one knee forward toward your chest while keeping the other leg extended.
  5. Quickly switch legs, driving one leg out while bringing the other knee forward.
  6. Continue alternating legs in a climbing motion at a controlled pace.
  7. Maintain a stable upper body and avoid letting your hips drop or rotate.
  8. Breathe steadily throughout the movement.
  9. Perform for the prescribed number of repetitions or time duration.

Tips

  • Start with a higher incline to reduce difficulty, then progress to lower angles.
  • Keep your hands directly under your shoulders for stability.
  • Engage your core throughout to maintain a neutral spine.
  • Control the pace rather than moving explosively to maintain form.
  • The incline position reduces the load on your shoulders compared to ground level.
  • Keep your head neutral by looking slightly forward and down.

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps
Gain strength 3 15 reps
Build muscle 3 18 reps
Build endurance 3 25 reps

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength

Plank with Chest Taps (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about plank with chest taps (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength

Supine Plank with Pull-Through (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about supine plank with pull-through (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength