78 moves. Home and gym strength, cardio and mobility - choose a pain-free starting point.
Progress only when the easier version feels controlled and pain-free. Ladders are options, not a requirement; stop for pain or dizziness.
Barbell Bench Press
IntermediateChest & triceps · Barbells
Form cues
- Set safeties and use a spotter; feet planted, shoulder blades supported.
- Grip just outside shoulder width, wrists stacked.
- Lower to lower chest with elbows about 45 degrees from torso.
- Press without bouncing or lifting hips.
Common mistakes to avoid
- No thumbless grip or bouncing the bar.
- Never bench heavy alone without safeties.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Chest Press Machine
- 2. Dumbbell Bench Press
- 3. Barbell Bench Press · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Barbell Back Squat
IntermediateQuads & glutes · Barbells
Form cues
- Set rack safety bars before unracking.
- Brace trunk and place bar on upper back, not neck.
- Sit down between hips with knees tracking toes.
- Stand with the whole foot grounded and controlled spine.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid knee collapse or losing your brace.
- Do not chase depth beyond your controlled range.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Bodyweight Squat
- 2. Goblet Squat
- 3. Barbell Back Squat · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Barbell Deadlift
IntermediatePosterior chain · Barbells
Form cues
- Bar over midfoot; hinge down and grip outside legs.
- Brace, keep bar close and take slack out.
- Push floor away; hips and shoulders rise together.
- Finish tall, then hinge to lower under control.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not jerk the bar or round under load.
- Avoid leaning back at lockout.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift
- 2. Barbell Romanian Deadlift
- 3. Barbell Deadlift · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Overhead Press
IntermediateShoulders & triceps · Barbells
Form cues
- Start with bar at upper chest and wrists stacked.
- Brace glutes and keep ribs down.
- Press overhead while moving head out of the bar path.
- Lower slowly to chest.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid lumbar overextension.
- Do not force painful overhead range.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Seated Dumbbell Press
- 2. Overhead Press · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Lat Pulldown
IntermediateLats & biceps · Cables
Form cues
- Adjust thigh pad snugly.
- Grip slightly wider than shoulders and sit tall.
- Pull elbows down toward ribs, bar to upper chest.
- Return slowly without shrugging.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Never pull behind the neck.
- Avoid swinging or excessive leaning.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Lat Pulldown · this move
- 2. Assisted Pull-up
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Goblet Squat
IntermediateQuads & glutes · Dumbbells
Form cues
- Hold dumbbell close to chest.
- Brace and squat between hips.
- Keep knees aligned with toes.
- Push through the whole foot to stand.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not let heels lift.
- Avoid knee collapse.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Bodyweight Squat
- 2. Goblet Squat · this move
- 3. Barbell Back Squat
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Dumbbell Bench Press
IntermediateChest & triceps · Dumbbells
Form cues
- Sit and position dumbbells safely before lying back.
- Plant feet and support shoulder blades.
- Lower beside chest in a pain-free range.
- Press with wrists stacked; return weights safely.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not drop dumbbells near others.
- Avoid excessively wide elbows.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Chest Press Machine
- 2. Dumbbell Bench Press · this move
- 3. Barbell Bench Press
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift
IntermediateHamstrings & glutes · Dumbbells
Form cues
- Stand with soft knees, dumbbells near thighs.
- Brace and hinge hips back.
- Lower only until hamstring tension without rounding.
- Stand by driving hips forward, not leaning back.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not squat the hinge.
- Do not round to reach the floor.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Glute Bridge
- 2. Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift · this move
- 3. Barbell Romanian Deadlift
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Barbell Romanian Deadlift
IntermediateHamstrings & glutes · Barbells
Form cues
- Begin standing with bar near thighs.
- Brace and hinge hips back with soft knees.
- Keep bar close and stop before back position changes.
- Return tall with controlled hip extension.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not bounce or round.
- Avoid excessive knee bend.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift
- 2. Barbell Romanian Deadlift · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Seated Dumbbell Press
IntermediateShoulders · Dumbbells
Form cues
- Set bench upright and feet stable.
- Start weights at shoulder height.
- Press in a pain-free arc with ribs stacked.
- Lower slowly without shrugging.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not arch to finish reps.
- Avoid forcing shoulder depth.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Seated Dumbbell Press · this move
- 2. Overhead Press
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
One-arm Dumbbell Row
IntermediateBack & biceps · Dumbbells
Form cues
- Support one hand on stable bench.
- Brace with back neutral.
- Pull elbow toward hip.
- Lower without rotating trunk.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid torso twisting.
- Do not jerk weight upward.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Seated Cable Row
- 2. One-arm Dumbbell Row · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Seated Cable Row
IntermediateBack & biceps · Cables
Form cues
- Set feet on platform with knees soft.
- Sit tall with neutral spine.
- Pull handle toward lower ribs.
- Return arms slowly without rounding.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid rocking torso.
- Do not shrug at the finish.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Seated Cable Row · this move
- 2. One-arm Dumbbell Row
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Cable Face Pull
IntermediateRear shoulders · Cables
Form cues
- Set rope near face height.
- Stand with stable stance.
- Pull toward forehead, separating hands.
- Return slowly, ribs down.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not arch your back.
- Avoid heavy loads that compromise control.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Light Cable Face Pull
- 2. Cable Face Pull · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Cable Triceps Pushdown
IntermediateTriceps · Cables
Form cues
- Set pulley high and grip rope.
- Keep upper arms by sides.
- Straighten elbows without moving shoulders.
- Return slowly to about 90 degrees.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid torso swinging.
- Do not force elbow lockout.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Light Cable Triceps Pushdown
- 2. Cable Triceps Pushdown · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Dumbbell Curl
IntermediateBiceps · Dumbbells
Form cues
- Stand tall with palms forward.
- Keep elbows near sides.
- Curl without swinging.
- Lower slowly through comfortable range.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid rocking torso.
- Do not bend wrists to lift.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Water-bottle Curl
- 2. Dumbbell Curl · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Dumbbell Lateral Raise
IntermediateSide shoulders · Dumbbells
Form cues
- Use light weights and soft elbows.
- Raise arms slightly forward of your sides.
- Stop around shoulder height.
- Lower slowly without shrugging.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not swing heavy weights.
- Avoid painful height or range.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Light Dumbbell Lateral Raise
- 2. Dumbbell Lateral Raise · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Leg Press
BeginnerQuads & glutes · Machines
Form cues
- Adjust seat so hips stay supported.
- Feet shoulder width on platform.
- Lower until before pelvis curls off pad.
- Press without snapping knees locked.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not lower beyond controlled hip range.
- Never lock knees forcefully.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Light Leg Press
- 2. Leg Press · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Chest Press Machine
BeginnerChest & triceps · Machines
Form cues
- Set handles near mid-chest.
- Back and feet supported.
- Press without shrugging.
- Return slowly without shoulder pain.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not let shoulders roll forward.
- Avoid excessive stretch.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Chest Press Machine · this move
- 2. Dumbbell Bench Press
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Seated Leg Curl
BeginnerHamstrings · Machines
Form cues
- Align machine axis with knee.
- Secure thigh pad.
- Curl through comfortable range.
- Return slowly without lifting hips.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not jerk weight.
- Avoid misaligned seat setup.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Light Seated Leg Curl
- 2. Seated Leg Curl · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Leg Extension
BeginnerQuads · Machines
Form cues
- Align knee with pivot.
- Set lower pad above ankles.
- Extend knees smoothly.
- Lower slowly in pain-free range.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid slamming knees locked.
- Stop if knee pain develops.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Light Leg Extension
- 2. Leg Extension · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Wall Push-up
BeginnerChest & arms · Home
Form cues
- Hands at shoulder height on a wall, slightly wider than shoulders
- Step feet back and keep head, hips and heels aligned
- Bend elbows roughly 30–45° from torso, bringing chest toward wall
- Press away while keeping ribs down
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid sagging hips or shrugging shoulders.
- Do not flare elbows straight out.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Wall Push-up · this move
- 2. Incline Push-up
- 3. Knee Push-up
- 4. Push-up
- 5. Diamond Push-up
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Push-up
IntermediateChest & arms · Home
Form cues
- Hands under shoulders, body straight
- Lower chest to near floor
- Push back up, keep core tight
- Too hard? Do it on your knees
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid sagging hips or a raised chin.
- Do not flare elbows straight out; keep them roughly 30–45° from your torso.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Wall Push-up
- 2. Incline Push-up
- 3. Knee Push-up
- 4. Push-up · this move
- 5. Diamond Push-up
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Knee Push-up
BeginnerChest & arms · Home
Form cues
- Knees on floor, hands under shoulders
- Straight line from knees to head
- Lower chest down slowly
- Press back up
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not bend at the hips; keep knees, hips and shoulders aligned.
- Avoid flaring elbows or rushing the descent.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Wall Push-up
- 2. Incline Push-up
- 3. Knee Push-up · this move
- 4. Push-up
- 5. Diamond Push-up
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Incline Push-up
BeginnerChest & arms · Home
Form cues
- Hands on a stable, non-slip countertop or bench
- Body straight, feet back
- Lower chest to the edge
- Push away
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not use furniture that slides or tips.
- Avoid dropping hips or shrugging shoulders.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Wall Push-up
- 2. Incline Push-up · this move
- 3. Knee Push-up
- 4. Push-up
- 5. Diamond Push-up
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Wide Push-up
IntermediateChest · Home
Form cues
- Hands wider than shoulders
- Lower chest slowly
- Elbows point out at 45°
- Push up strong
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid an excessively wide grip or painful shoulder depth.
- Do not sag through your lower back.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Wide Push-up
- 2. Wide Push-up · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Wide Push-up
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Diamond Push-up
AdvancedTriceps · Home
Form cues
- Hands together, make a diamond
- Lower chest to hands
- Keep elbows close
- Push back up
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not force wrists into a painful angle.
- Avoid elbows flaring wide or your hips sagging.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Wall Push-up
- 2. Incline Push-up
- 3. Knee Push-up
- 4. Push-up
- 5. Diamond Push-up · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Pike Push-up
IntermediateShoulders · Home
Form cues
- Hips high in an upside-down V
- Bend elbows, head toward floor
- Push back up
- Keep legs straight
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not crash your head toward the floor.
- Avoid collapsing shoulders or forcing locked knees.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Pike Push-up
- 2. Pike Push-up · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Pike Push-up
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Chair Dips
BeginnerTriceps · Home
Form cues
- Hands on edge of a sturdy chair
- Lower body by bending elbows
- Keep back close to chair
- Push back up
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid deep dips that pull shoulders forward.
- Do not use an unstable chair; skip for shoulder pain.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Chair Dips
- 2. Chair Dips · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Chair Dips
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Door-frame Row
BeginnerBack & biceps · Home
Form cues
- Hold both sides of a strong door frame
- Lean back, arms straight
- Pull chest to the frame
- Lower slowly
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not load a loose or weak frame.
- Avoid jerking or rounding your shoulders forward.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Door-frame Row
- 2. Door-frame Row · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Door-frame Row
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Towel Row
BeginnerBack · Home
Form cues
- Use only a load-rated, secure anchor; never an ordinary door handle
- Lean back holding ends
- Pull yourself in
- Control the way back
Common mistakes to avoid
- Never suspend body weight from an ordinary door handle.
- Use only a secure, load-rated anchor; avoid a slipping towel.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Towel Row
- 2. Towel Row · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Towel Row
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Arm Circles
BeginnerShoulders · Home
Form cues
- Arms out to the sides
- Make small circles forward
- Then backward
- Keep arms straight
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid large, painful circles.
- Do not shrug shoulders or arch your back.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Arm Circles
- 2. Arm Circles · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Arm Circles
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Water-bottle Curl
BeginnerBiceps · Home
Form cues
- Hold filled bottles in each hand
- Elbows at your sides
- Curl up to shoulders
- Lower slowly
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not swing your torso.
- Keep elbows at your sides rather than drifting forward.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Water-bottle Curl
- 2. Water-bottle Curl · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Water-bottle Curl
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Water-bottle Shoulder Press
BeginnerShoulders · Home
Form cues
- Bottles at shoulder height
- Press straight overhead
- Don't arch your back
- Lower with control
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid flaring ribs and arching the lower back.
- Do not press through shoulder pain.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Water-bottle Shoulder Press
- 2. Water-bottle Shoulder Press · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Water-bottle Shoulder Press
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Bodyweight Squat
BeginnerLegs & glutes · Home
Form cues
- Feet shoulder-width apart
- Sit back like into a chair
- Knees follow toes, chest up
- Stand up by pushing through heels
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not let knees collapse inward.
- Avoid lifting heels or rounding your lower back.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Chair Squat
- 2. Bodyweight Squat · this move
- 3. Jump Squat
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Chair Squat
BeginnerLegs · Home
Form cues
- Stand in front of a chair
- Sit down slowly until you touch
- Stand right back up
- Use arms forward for balance
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not drop onto the chair.
- Avoid knees collapsing inward or a sliding chair.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Chair Squat · this move
- 2. Bodyweight Squat
- 3. Jump Squat
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Sumo Squat
BeginnerInner thighs & glutes · Home
Form cues
- Feet wide, toes turned out
- Lower hips straight down
- Knees push outward
- Squeeze glutes as you rise
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not force toes into an extreme turnout.
- Avoid knees rolling inward.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Sumo Squat
- 2. Sumo Squat · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Sumo Squat
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Jump Squat
IntermediateLegs / cardio · Home
Form cues
- Do a normal squat
- Explode up into a jump
- Land softly through the whole foot with knees tracking toes
- Go straight into the next one
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not land with locked knees.
- Avoid knee collapse; absorb impact through the whole foot.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Chair Squat
- 2. Bodyweight Squat
- 3. Jump Squat · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Lunge
BeginnerLegs · Home
Form cues
- Step one foot forward
- Lower back knee toward floor
- Front knee stays above ankle
- Push back and switch legs
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid a narrow tightrope stance.
- Do not let the front knee collapse inward.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Lunge
- 2. Lunge · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Lunge
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Reverse Lunge
BeginnerLegs & glutes · Home
Form cues
- Step one foot back
- Lower back knee down
- Keep chest tall
- Return and switch
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not slam the back knee down.
- Avoid front knee collapse or leaning far forward.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Reverse Lunge
- 2. Reverse Lunge · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Reverse Lunge
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Side Lunge
BeginnerInner & outer thighs · Home
Form cues
- Step wide to one side
- Bend that knee, other leg straight
- Push back to center
- Switch sides
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not roll the bent knee inward.
- Avoid lifting the heel or rounding the back.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Side Lunge
- 2. Side Lunge · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Side Lunge
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Step-ups
BeginnerLegs & glutes · Home
Form cues
- Use a sturdy step or stair
- Step up with one foot
- Bring other foot up
- Step down and repeat
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not use a wobbly or very high step.
- Avoid pushing mainly from the trailing foot.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Step-ups
- 2. Step-ups · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Step-ups
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Glute Bridge
BeginnerGlutes & back · Home
Form cues
- Lie on back, knees bent
- Lift hips until body is straight
- Squeeze glutes at the top
- Lower slowly
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid arching your lower back at the top.
- Do not let knees fall inward.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Glute Bridge · this move
- 2. Single-leg Glute Bridge
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Single-leg Glute Bridge
IntermediateGlutes · Home
Form cues
- Bridge position, one leg lifted
- Push through the planted heel
- Hips stay level
- Switch legs
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid rotating or dropping one hip.
- Do not substitute lower-back arching for hip extension.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Glute Bridge
- 2. Single-leg Glute Bridge · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Wall Sit
BeginnerThighs · Home
Form cues
- Back flat against a wall
- Slide down until knees at 90°
- Hold the position
- Breathe and stay strong
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not force a painful 90° depth.
- Avoid holding your breath or knees rolling inward.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Wall Sit
- 2. Wall Sit · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Wall Sit
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Calf Raises
BeginnerCalves · Home
Form cues
- Stand near a wall for balance
- Rise onto your toes
- Pause at the top
- Lower slowly
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not bounce through repetitions.
- Avoid rolling ankles outward.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Calf Raises
- 2. Calf Raises · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Calf Raises
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Donkey Kicks
BeginnerGlutes · Home
Form cues
- On hands and knees
- Kick one leg up, knee bent
- Squeeze glute at top
- Lower and repeat
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid arching the lower back to lift higher.
- Do not rotate your pelvis.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Donkey Kicks
- 2. Donkey Kicks · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Donkey Kicks
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Fire Hydrants
BeginnerHips & glutes · Home
Form cues
- On hands and knees
- Lift one knee out to the side
- Keep hips level
- Lower and switch
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not lean sideways or twist the trunk.
- Avoid lifting beyond controlled hip range.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Fire Hydrants
- 2. Fire Hydrants · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Fire Hydrants
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Plank
BeginnerCore · Home
Form cues
- Forearms on floor under shoulders
- Body in one straight line
- Squeeze stomach and glutes
- Hold and breathe slowly
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid sagging hips or hiking your backside.
- Do not hold your breath.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Dead Bug
- 2. Plank · this move
- 3. Side Plank
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Side Plank
IntermediateObliques · Home
Form cues
- Lie on side, forearm under shoulder
- Lift hips off the floor
- Body in a straight line
- Hold, then switch
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not collapse into the supporting shoulder.
- Avoid rotating hips toward the floor.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Dead Bug
- 2. Plank
- 3. Side Plank · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Crunches
BeginnerAbs · Home
Form cues
- Lie on back, knees bent
- Hands lightly behind head
- Lift shoulders off floor
- Lower slowly - don't pull neck
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not pull your head with your hands.
- Avoid using momentum to sit all the way up.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Crunches
- 2. Crunches · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Crunches
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Bicycle Crunches
BeginnerAbs & obliques · Home
Form cues
- Lie on back, hands behind head
- Bring elbow toward opposite knee
- Switch sides in a pedaling motion
- Go slow and controlled
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not tug on the neck.
- Avoid fast pedaling with an arched lower back.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Bicycle Crunches
- 2. Bicycle Crunches · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Bicycle Crunches
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Leg Raises
IntermediateLower abs · Home
Form cues
- Lie flat, hands under hips
- Lift straight legs to 90°
- Lower slowly without touching floor
- Keep lower back pressed down
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not lower legs so far that your back arches.
- Avoid swinging; bend knees to reduce difficulty.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Leg Raises
- 2. Leg Raises · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Leg Raises
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Flutter Kicks
BeginnerLower abs · Home
Form cues
- Lie flat, legs slightly raised
- Kick legs up and down in small moves
- Keep core tight
- Breathe steadily
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid an arched lower back.
- Do not force legs very low or hold your breath.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Flutter Kicks
- 2. Flutter Kicks · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Flutter Kicks
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Russian Twists
BeginnerObliques · Home
Form cues
- Sit, lean back slightly, knees bent
- Twist torso side to side
- Touch floor beside hips
- Lift feet to make it harder
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not round and wrench your lower back.
- Avoid momentum; keep feet down initially.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Russian Twists
- 2. Russian Twists · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Russian Twists
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Dead Bug
BeginnerCore · Home
Form cues
- Lie on back, arms up, knees at 90°
- Lower opposite arm and leg
- Keep back flat on floor
- Return and switch
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid letting ribs flare or your back arch.
- Do not extend limbs farther than you can control.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Dead Bug · this move
- 2. Plank
- 3. Side Plank
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Bird Dog
BeginnerCore & lower back · Home
Form cues
- On hands and knees
- Reach one arm and opposite leg out
- Hold 2 seconds
- Switch sides
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid twisting hips or lifting limbs too high.
- Do not arch your lower back.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Bird Dog
- 2. Bird Dog · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Bird Dog
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Superman
BeginnerLower back · Home
Form cues
- Lie face down, arms forward
- Lift arms, chest and legs
- Hold 2 seconds
- Lower with control
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not crane the neck or lift excessively high.
- Avoid forcing extension through back pain.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Superman
- 2. Superman · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Superman
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Mountain Climbers
BeginnerCore / cardio · Home
Form cues
- Start in a high plank
- Drive one knee to chest
- Switch legs quickly
- Keep hips low
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid bouncing hips or rounding shoulders.
- Do not speed up before you control the plank.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Mountain Climbers
- 2. Mountain Climbers · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Mountain Climbers
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Jumping Jacks
BeginnerCardio · Home
Form cues
- Stand tall, arms by sides
- Jump feet out, arms overhead
- Jump back to start
- Keep a steady rhythm
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid stiff, loud landings.
- Do not force arms overhead through shoulder pain.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Jumping Jacks
- 2. Jumping Jacks · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Jumping Jacks
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
High Knees
BeginnerCardio · Home
Form cues
- Run on the spot
- Drive knees up to hip height
- Pump your arms
- Stay light on your toes
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not lean far backward.
- Avoid pounding the floor; march if impact is uncomfortable.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Brisk Walking
- 2. High Knees · this move
- 3. Burpee
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Butt Kicks
BeginnerCardio · Home
Form cues
- Jog on the spot
- Kick heels up toward glutes
- Keep chest tall
- Stay quick and light
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not arch your back to reach your heels.
- Avoid hard landings or forcing knee range.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Butt Kicks
- 2. Butt Kicks · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Butt Kicks
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Burpee
IntermediateFull body / cardio · Home
Form cues
- Squat and place hands down
- Jump feet back to plank
- Jump feet forward
- Jump up with arms overhead
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not let hips sag in the plank.
- Avoid uncontrolled jumps; step back and omit the jump initially.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Brisk Walking
- 2. High Knees
- 3. Burpee · this move
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Skater Jumps
IntermediateLegs / cardio · Home
Form cues
- Jump sideways onto one foot
- Swing the other leg behind
- Jump to the other side
- Land softly
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not let the landing knee collapse inward.
- Avoid large leaps before balance is stable.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Skater Jumps
- 2. Skater Jumps · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Skater Jumps
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Shadow Boxing
BeginnerFull body / cardio · Home
Form cues
- Stand with fists up
- Throw quick punches in the air
- Move your feet
- Keep going for 30–60 seconds
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not snap elbows into lockout.
- Avoid twisting a planted knee; pivot the foot.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Shadow Boxing
- 2. Shadow Boxing · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Shadow Boxing
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Stair Climbing
BeginnerLegs / cardio · Home
Form cues
- Use the stairs at home or office
- Walk up at a brisk pace
- Use the railing if needed
- Walk down slowly
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not skip steps before balance is secure.
- Avoid rushing down; use a railing.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Stair Climbing
- 2. Stair Climbing · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Stair Climbing
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Brisk Walking
BeginnerCardio / fat burn · Home
Form cues
- Walk fast enough to breathe harder
- Swing your arms
- Aim for 30 minutes
- Best after meals
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid overstriding or hunching shoulders.
- Do not push a pace that prevents speaking comfortably.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Brisk Walking · this move
- 2. High Knees
- 3. Burpee
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Skipping (Jump Rope)
IntermediateCardio · Home
Form cues
- Use a rope or pretend one
- Small jumps on your toes
- Turn the rope with wrists
- Rest when needed
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not jump excessively high.
- Avoid stiff landings or turning the rope with whole arms.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Skipping (Jump Rope)
- 2. Skipping (Jump Rope) · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Skipping (Jump Rope)
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Inchworm
BeginnerFull body · Home
Form cues
- Stand, bend down, hands on floor
- Walk hands out to a plank
- Walk feet up to hands
- Stand and repeat
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not force straight knees when reaching the floor.
- Avoid letting your lower back sag in plank.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Inchworm
- 2. Inchworm · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Inchworm
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Bear Crawl
IntermediateFull body · Home
Form cues
- Hands and toes on floor, knees just off
- Crawl forward with opposite hand and foot
- Keep back flat
- Crawl back
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not lift hips high or twist the torso.
- Avoid long steps that break control.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Bear Crawl
- 2. Bear Crawl · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Bear Crawl
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Squat to Press
BeginnerFull body · Home
Form cues
- Hold bottles at shoulders
- Squat down
- Stand and press overhead
- Repeat smoothly
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not arch the lower back during the press.
- Avoid knee collapse or using slippery bottles.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Squat to Press
- 2. Squat to Press · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Squat to Press
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Plank Jacks
IntermediateCore / cardio · Home
Form cues
- Start in a plank
- Jump feet wide then together
- Keep hips steady
- Breathe and keep pace
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid bouncing hips with each jump.
- Do not widen feet beyond a controlled range.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Plank Jacks
- 2. Plank Jacks · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Plank Jacks
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Cat-Cow Stretch
BeginnerSpine · Home
Form cues
- On hands and knees
- Arch back up like a cat
- Drop belly and look up
- Move slowly with breath
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not force end-range spinal movement.
- Avoid throwing your head backward.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Cat-Cow Stretch
- 2. Cat-Cow Stretch · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Cat-Cow Stretch
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Child's Pose
BeginnerBack & hips · Home
Form cues
- Kneel, sit back on heels
- Reach arms forward on floor
- Rest forehead down
- Breathe deeply
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not force hips onto heels through knee pain.
- Avoid stretching shoulders painfully.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Child's Pose
- 2. Child's Pose · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Child's Pose
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Hamstring Stretch
BeginnerBack of legs · Home
Form cues
- Sit with one leg straight
- Reach toward your toes
- Keep back long
- Hold 30 seconds each side
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not bounce or round your back to reach toes.
- Avoid locking the knee forcefully.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Hamstring Stretch
- 2. Hamstring Stretch · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Hamstring Stretch
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Hip Flexor Stretch
BeginnerHips · Home
Form cues
- Kneel on one knee
- Push hips gently forward
- Keep chest tall
- Hold, then switch
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not arch the lower back to push farther.
- Avoid pressing an unpadded knee into a hard floor.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Hip Flexor Stretch
- 2. Hip Flexor Stretch · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Hip Flexor Stretch
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Cobra Stretch
BeginnerAbs & lower back · Home
Form cues
- Lie face down, hands under shoulders
- Push chest up, hips stay down
- Relax shoulders
- Hold 20–30 seconds
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not force arms straight or compress the lower back.
- Avoid shrugging shoulders toward ears.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Cobra Stretch
- 2. Cobra Stretch · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Cobra Stretch
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Neck & Shoulder Rolls
BeginnerNeck & shoulders · Home
Form cues
- Sit or stand tall
- Slowly roll shoulders back
- Gently tilt head side to side
- Great for desk workers
Common mistakes to avoid
- Avoid full forceful neck circles.
- Do not push through tingling or dizziness.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Neck & Shoulder Rolls
- 2. Neck & Shoulder Rolls · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Neck & Shoulder Rolls
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.
Surya Namaskar
BeginnerFull body / mobility · Home
Form cues
- Flow through the 12 sun salutation poses
- Match each move with a breath
- Start with 3 rounds
- Build up to 12
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not rush transitions or force deep bends.
- Avoid holding your breath; modify painful wrist or knee positions.
Difficulty ladder
- 1. Supported / shorter-range Surya Namaskar
- 2. Surya Namaskar · this move
- 3. Slower, controlled Surya Namaskar
For supported options, use a stable surface; add range and control before more reps. Advance only without pain.