Mountain Climbers - Add intensitly and extra calorie burn to your workouts

If you ever did calisthenics back in gym class, you may remember mountain climbers, a tough exercise that challenges the legs, core and the heart rate. Maybe you even remember vowing to never, ever do them again and, if you did, I wouldn't blame you. I seem to remember making a similar vow to Mrs. Thompson, my PE teacher back in 3rd grade.

Mrs. Thompson would be happy to know that I've broken my vow, simply because this move is a great way to add intensity to my workouts while building endurance and agility. When you don't have much time and want to get a good workout, mountain climbers are a great choice - something my clients don't always appreciate when I make them do these.
 
This move is advanced so, if you feel any discomfort or pain, you may want to avoid it. You can also modify by elevating the hands on a small step or BOSU, which some people may find more comfortable. You may have to shorten your range of motion if you do that to avoid hitting the knees on the step.
 
Do it right: Begin in a pushup position on the hands and toes. Bring the right knee in towards the chest, resting the foot on the floor. Jump up and switch feet in the air, bringing the left foot in and the right foot back. Continue alternating the feet as fast as you safely can for 30-60 seconds. Remember to keep your hips down and make large lunge like motions when switching feet.