Straddle Human Flag

Description

The Straddle Human Flag is an advanced isometric hold where the body is held parallel to the ground while gripping a vertical pole or bar. Grasp the pole with one hand in a high position (pulling) and the other in a lower position (pushing). Kick or lift your legs into a horizontal position, keeping them spread wide in a straddle to reduce the leverage and make the hold slightly easier than the full version. Focus on keeping your bottom arm locked out and pushing hard, while the top arm pulls. Engage your obliques and core intensely to maintain a straight line from your head to your hips.

Difficulty & Category

Advanced
Isometric

Affected Muscles

Deltoid (Lateral)
Deltoid (Anterior)
Obliques (External)
Obliques (Internal)
Latissimus Dorsi
Trapezius (Lower)
Triceps Brachii
Gluteus Medius
Erector Spinae

Body Areas

Shoulders
Core
Back
Arms
Glutes

Equipment

High Bar
Low Bar
Other

Progressions

An advanced static hold where the body is held horizontally to the side of a vertical pole, requiring tremendous strength and body control.
Isometric
Advanced

Regressions

Start by gripping a vertical pole or stall bars with one hand high in a pulling position (palm facing you) and one hand low in a pushing position (palm facing away). Kick or lift your body into a horizontal position while keeping your knees tucked tightly to your chest. Focus on pushing hard with the bottom arm and pulling with the top arm to keep your body level. Engage your obliques and core to prevent your hips from sagging or rotating.
Isometric
Intermediate
Skill