Spider Crawl

A core-focused exercise performed in a plank position where you alternate driving knees toward elbows, building abdominal strength and stability.
Instructions
- Begin in a prone plank position on the floor, supporting your weight on your hands and toes.
- Your hands should be directly under your shoulders, and your body should form a straight line from head to heels.
- Keep your feet together and maintain a tight core with glutes engaged.
- Your arms should be bent approximately 90 degrees to start, elbows near your body.
- Initiate the movement by raising one foot off the ground and externally rotating your leg.
- Bring your knee toward your elbow on the same side, driving it as far forward as possible.
- Return this leg to the starting position with your foot on the ground.
- Repeat the movement on the opposite side, alternating legs in a controlled manner.
- Continue alternating for the desired number of reps or time.
Tips
- Maintain a rigid plank position throughout; don’t allow your hips to sag or pike upward
- The movement should be controlled and deliberate, not rushed or jerky
- Keep your core engaged and glutes tight to protect your lower back
- This exercise can be performed slowly for core strength or quickly for cardiovascular benefits
- Focus on the external rotation of the hip as you bring the knee toward your elbow
- This movement is excellent for improving hip mobility and core endurance
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.
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Supine Plank with Pull-Through (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
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