How to Do the Crab Walk
The crab walk is a floor movement where you move forward or backward on your hands and feet with your hips lifted. It works your triceps, shoulders and glutes, and gets your heart rate up. It suits beginners as a fun full-body warm-up or finisher.

Muscles worked
Primary
- Triceps
- Shoulders
Secondary
- Abs
- Glutes
How to do the Crab Walk
- 1
Sit on the floor with your knees bent and your hands behind you.
- 2
Place your hands shoulder-width apart with your fingers pointing toward your feet.
- 3
Press into your hands and feet to lift your hips into a tabletop position.
- 4
Keep your chest open and your head neutral.
- 5
Walk forward by moving an opposite hand and foot together.
- 6
Keep your hips lifted as you walk.
- 7
Continue for your set time or distance, then rest.
Form cues to remember
- Hips high
- Chest open
- Move opposite hand and foot
- Small, steady steps
Common mistakes
Letting your hips sag
Press through your hands and feet to keep your hips lifted.
Shrugging toward your ears
Press the floor away and keep your shoulders down.
Taking big steps
Use small steps to stay balanced.
Dropping your head back
Keep your neck neutral and look forward.
Sets and reps
| Conditioning | 3–5 rounds of 20–40 seconds, with 30 seconds rest |
|---|---|
| Endurance | 3 sets of 10–15 meters, with 45 seconds rest |
Your wrists and shoulders carry a lot of weight, so go slowly if you feel strain. Skip it if you have wrist or shoulder pain.
Crab Walk FAQ
What muscles does the crab walk work?
Your triceps, shoulders and glutes do most of the work, with your abs helping you hold the tabletop position.
Is the crab walk good for shoulders?
It strengthens the back of your shoulders and triceps, but it can feel tough on tight shoulders. Go slowly and keep your chest open.
Can I do the crab walk in a small space?
Yes. Walk back and forth, or do crab reaches in place, lifting one hand at a time.







