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Last updated February 8, 2026
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cardio
Battling Ropes
Hold the heavy ropes and whip them up and down to create waves. Keep your core tight and sit in a quarter squat. Go for speed and intensity.
Quick facts
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Pull
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- Very Low
- Calorie Burn
- High
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
cardio
Secondary
front shouldersabs
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
battling rope
Movement pattern
Alternate
Posture
Standing
Tracking parameters
time
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Find a suitable space with enough room to move the battling ropes.
- Anchor the ropes securely to a sturdy point, ensuring they are not going to slip during use.
- Step 2Grip the Ropes
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent.
- Grab one end of each rope with an overhand grip, keeping your hands shoulder-width apart.
- Step 3Position Your Body
- Engage your core and maintain a straight back.
- Lean slightly forward from your hips, keeping your chest up and shoulders back.
- Step 4Start the Movement
- Begin by alternating waves with the ropes, lifting one arm up while lowering the other.
- Focus on creating a rhythmic motion, using your shoulders and arms to generate the waves.
- Step 5Maintain Form
- Keep your core tight and avoid leaning too far forward or backward.
- Ensure your knees remain slightly bent and your feet are firmly planted on the ground.
- Step 6Control Your Breathing
- Breathe steadily throughout the exercise, exhaling as you lift the ropes and inhaling as they come down.
- Stay relaxed and avoid holding your breath.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your desired duration or number of repetitions, gradually slow down the movement.
- Carefully put down the ropes and take a moment to catch your breath.