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Suspension Trainer Pike

Intermediate
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A suspension trainer exercise that targets the abs and hip flexors to build core stability and shoulder strength; commonly scaled by limiting range of motion.

About Exercise

Equipment

Suspension Trainer

Difficulty

4/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Abs, Obliques

Secondary Muscles

Glutes, Lower Back

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Stability
Strength
Conditioning

Training Style

Calisthenics
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Abs

10/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Obliques

8/10

External Obliques, Internal Obliques

Shoulders

6/10

Anterior Delts

Hip Flexors

6/10

Iliopsoas

Glutes

4/10

Glute Max

Lower Back

3/10

Erector Spinae

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Adjust straps to mid-calf height. Place feet in the cradles and assume a high plank position with hands under shoulders.

  1. Brace core and press hands firmly into the floor.
  2. Keep legs straight and lift hips toward the ceiling.
  3. Pull feet forward until hips are stacked over shoulders.
  4. Pause briefly at the top in an inverted V position.
  5. Lower hips back to the starting plank position with control.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Hips to sky
  • Legs straight
  • Push floor away
  • Ribs down
  • Control the descent

Breathing

Exhale as you lift your hips up, inhale as you lower back to plank.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

From a flat plank position to a high pike with hips over shoulders.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Maintain a neutral spine during the plank phase.
  • Stop if you feel sharp pain in the lower back.
  • Ensure straps are securely anchored.

Spotting

Not recommended; perform on stable ground with clear space.

Common Mistakes

  • Bending knees
  • Sagging hips in plank
  • Rounding lower back
  • Rushing the tempo

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back pain
  • Shoulder instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Hamstring flexibility
  • Shoulder flexion to 90 degrees

Build Up First

  • Proficient plank hold
  • Basic core stability

Also known as

TRX Pike, Suspended Pike, Suspension Jackknife, Inverted V, Strap Pike

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