Workout Type:
Core
Difficulty Level:
Beginner
Equipment needed:
Pull Up Bar

How To Do Knee To Elbow

The Knee To Elbow exercise is a dynamic movement that targets the core, shoulders, and hip flexors. It involves bringing your knees towards your elbows while maintaining a stable upper body. Proper form is crucial to maximize effectiveness and prevent injury.

Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Execute Knee To Elbow

Starting Position

Begin by positioning yourself in a high plank position with your hands placed directly under your shoulders. Your body should form a straight line from your head to your heels. Engage your core and keep your feet hip-width apart.

First Movement

From the starting position, lift your right knee towards your right elbow. Focus on bringing your knee as close to your elbow as possible while keeping your hips low. Avoid twisting your torso; instead, maintain a stable upper body.

Return to Starting Position

Lower your right leg back to the starting position, ensuring your body remains in a straight line. Keep your core engaged throughout this movement to maintain stability.

Second Movement

Now, lift your left knee towards your left elbow, following the same form as before. Ensure that your hips remain low and your upper body stable as you bring your knee up.

Repeat the Movement

Continue alternating between right and left knees, maintaining a steady rhythm. Focus on controlled movements rather than speed to ensure proper form and effectiveness.

Finishing the Exercise

After completing the desired number of repetitions, lower your knees to the ground and sit back into a child's pose to stretch your core and relax your muscles.

Knee To Elbow Workout Plan for All Levels

  • Beginner: 2 sets of 8-10 reps, rest 30 seconds, 2 times per week.
  • Intermediate: 3 sets of 10-15 reps, rest 30-45 seconds, 3 times per week.
  • Advanced: 4 sets of 15-20 reps, rest 45-60 seconds, 4 times per week.

What Are The Benefits Of Knee To Elbow

  • Strengthens the core muscles, improving overall stability.
  • Enhances shoulder stability and strength.
  • Increases flexibility in the hip flexors.
  • Improves coordination and balance.
  • Builds endurance for other core exercises, such as planks and mountain climbers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Allowing hips to rise too high: Keep your hips low to maintain proper form.
  • Twisting the torso: Focus on bringing the knee to the elbow without rotating your body.
  • Rushing the movement: Perform each repetition slowly and with control for maximum effectiveness.
  • Neglecting core engagement: Always engage your core to support your lower back and maintain stability.

Follow these steps and tips to master Knee To Elbow with proper form and efficiency.

FAQ About Knee To Elbow

How many knee to elbow reps should I do per set?

10-15 reps per side, 3 sets. Bring your knee all the way to your elbow on each rep. If you can't touch, your hip flexor mobility needs work. Slow down the movement, each rep should take about 2 seconds.

What muscles do knee to elbow exercises target?

Obliques and hip flexors primarily. The rotation engages the obliques more than a straight knee raise. Your grip and lats also work to keep you stable on the bar. It's one of the best exercises for building rotational core strength while hanging.

Why can't I get my knee to touch my elbow?

Either tight hips or weak obliques. If your knee stops at chest height, it's a flexibility issue. If it stops below that, it's strength. Add hanging knee raises to build base strength, then practice the rotation pattern. Most people close the gap in 2-3 weeks.

What's the difference between knee to elbow and regular hanging knee raises?

The twist. Regular knee raises go straight up, working the rectus abdominis. Knee to elbow adds rotation, which targets the obliques. I program both because you need frontal and rotational core strength for balanced development.

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