Crunch

About the movement

The simplest direct ab exercise. Crunches target the upper abs with a short, controlled spinal flexion.

How to do it

1. 1

   Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor.

2. 2

   Place your fingertips behind your head or cross your arms on your chest.

3. 3

   Curl your shoulders off the floor by contracting your abs, exhaling as you rise.

4. 4

   Lower back down slowly until your shoulders touch the floor.

Form tips

• •Curl, do not yank; your hands should support your neck, not pull it.
• •Lift only your shoulder blades; a full sit-up uses your hip flexors.
• •Slow the lowering phase for more ab tension.