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TRX Pike

Intermediate
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TRX Pike is a suspension core exercise that targets abs, obliques, and shoulders for improved stability and strength; uses instability to enhance body control and flexibility.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

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

Anchor TRX straps at mid-calf height. Place tops of feet in cradles, hands under shoulders in plank position facing away from anchor.

  1. Engage core and glutes to form straight plank from head to heels.
  2. Exhale and contract abs to lift hips toward ceiling, keeping legs straight.
  3. Pull feet forward until hips stack over shoulders, forming inverted V.
  4. Pause briefly at top, head neutral.
  5. Inhale and lower hips controlled back to plank.
  6. Avoid sagging hips or arching back.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Core tight
  • Hips high
  • Legs straight
  • Shoulders stable
  • Control descent

Breathing

Exhale during hip lift, inhale on controlled lower; brace core throughout.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

From full plank to hips directly over shoulders with straight legs.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Secure anchor point
  • Check strap equality
  • Avoid back strain by engaging core
  • Progress slowly from plank
  • Stop if pain occurs

Spotting

No spotting needed; use stable anchor and build from basic plank.

Common Mistakes

  • Hips sagging
  • Swinging legs
  • Arched lower back
  • Uneven straps

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

Suspended Pike, TRX Inverted V, TRX Hip Pike

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