Videos
Instructions
- Begin in a half kneeling position with one knee on the ground and the other foot forward at 90 degrees.
- Extend one arm straight overhead and the other arm down by your side.
- Hinge at the hips and slowly reach your lower hand toward the floor while keeping your torso controlled.
- Pause briefly at the bottom, then return to the starting upright position.
- Repeat on the same side before switching.
Technical tips
- Keep your core engaged to stabilize the spine.
- Maintain a straight line from the overhead arm to the grounded knee.
- Move slowly and with control, avoiding jerky motions.
- Focus on hip hinge rather than bending the spine.
Breathing tips
- Inhale as you prepare at the top position.
- Exhale as you hinge and lower toward the ground.
- Inhale again as you return to the upright position.
Medical restrictions
- Avoid if you have recent spinal injuries.
- Not recommended for individuals with severe hip mobility limitations.
- Avoid if recovering from abdominal surgery.
Description
The Half Kneeling Windmill is a functional exercise designed to improve core stability, spinal mobility, and overall balance. Performed from a half kneeling position, this movement emphasizes controlled hip hinging and trunk rotation, making it highly effective for building coordination and improving posture. It is especially beneficial for individuals looking to enhance mobility and strength in daily activities or athletic performance. By combining stability with mobility, the exercise challenges the body to maintain alignment while moving through multiple planes. The half kneeling stance reduces strain on the lower back compared to standing variations, making it more accessible for beginners or those focusing on corrective training. This exercise is often included in warm-ups, mobility circuits, or functional training routines as it promotes better movement quality and joint integrity. In addition to improving flexibility and coordination, it also supports core activation, which is essential for injury prevention and performance efficiency. The Half Kneeling Windmill requires no equipment, making it a versatile addition to home or gym workouts. It can also serve as a preparatory exercise for more advanced windmill variations that use weights such as kettlebells. Whether the goal is improving athletic function, posture, or mobility, this exercise provides a safe and effective way to train the body in a controlled manner.
What is the Half Kneeling Windmill good for?
The Half Kneeling Windmill is excellent for improving core stability, spinal mobility, and hip flexibility while also training balance and coordination.
Do I need equipment for the Half Kneeling Windmill?
No equipment is needed for the Half Kneeling Windmill, making it easy to perform at home or anywhere with space.
Is the Half Kneeling Windmill suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is beginner-friendly because the half kneeling stance provides stability while still challenging core control and mobility.
How many reps should I do for the Half Kneeling Windmill?
A good starting point is 8 to 12 controlled repetitions per side, focusing on form and breathing rather than speed.
Can the Half Kneeling Windmill help with posture?
Yes, this exercise strengthens the core and improves spinal alignment, which contributes to better posture and movement efficiency.