Hollow Rock

CoreBW

A dynamic progression of the hollow hold where the rigid hollow shape is rocked back and forth along the spine, requiring the anti-extension brace to be maintained through continuous movement rather than a static position.

Demo: GymnasticBodies

Sets

3

Reps

10-20 rocks

Rest

1 min

Contraindications

Master the static hollow hold for 30+ seconds before attempting the rock.

Setup

Set up in a full hollow body position with arms overhead and legs extended.

Execution

  1. 1Lock the hollow shape exactly as in the static hold
  2. 2Initiate a small rocking motion by shifting weight toward the head, then toward the feet
  3. 3Keep the shape completely rigid — the whole body rocks as one unit
  4. 4Do not let the knees bend or the arch break at any point
  5. 5Control the rock, don't let momentum take over

Key cues

  • Rock as one solid piece, no bending at the hips
  • Low back stays sealed to an imaginary floor line
  • Small controlled rocks, not wild swinging
  • Exhale on the rock toward the feet

Common faults

  • Bending at the hips during the rock, breaking the hollow shape
  • Losing the shape and arching the back to generate momentum
  • Rocking too big and too fast, sacrificing control
  • Neck tension from over-gripping the position

Tweaks

  • Reduce rock amplitude if form breaks down
  • Add ankle weights for advanced loading
  • Pair with hollow-to-arch (superman) transitions

Regressions

Progressions

Muscles

Primary: Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis, Hip Flexors

Secondary: Quads, Lats

Notes

ANTI-EXTENSION, dynamic variant. Classic CrossFit/gymnastics conditioning staple.

Sources

Attribution: Gymnastics Strength Training (GST) canon