Mountain climbers have become a staple in my workouts. We’ve done them in all here types of XIT classes that I take weekly (boxing, XIT, and kettlebell), and have become an exercise that I can do without too much thought. Adding kettlebells into the mix, however, makes this into a move that needs not only a lot of concentration but also more effort. When you’re balanced on the handles of the kettlebells as in the video above, it is absolutely necessary to be in complete control of your entire body. Not only do you have to engage your core, but each movement needs to be completely controlled. There is no room for excessive movement.

This video shows a slightly less difficult version of the kettlebell mountain climbers. In this version, there is more stability since you’re hands are resting on the large part of the kettlebell. This allows for a much wider range of movement with your legs as well as the ability to use more speed. It does still involve a bit more concentration than a traditional mountain climber, since you have to make sure you don’t move the kettlebells and lose your balance. This is also great modification for anyone with wrist issues as balancing on the handles of the kettlebell puts a lot of strain on your wrists. So if you’re getting a little bored with traditional mountain climbers, either of these exercise should be just what you’re looking for.