Crunches

The classic ab exercise for building core strength.

Crunches are one of the most well-known abdominal exercises. When performed with good technique, they are a reliable way to build core strength and stability.

Instructions

  1. Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor or resting on a bench.
  2. Place your hands lightly at the sides of your head — don’t interlock your fingers.
  3. Engage your abs and press your lower back into the floor.
  4. Lift your shoulder blades off the ground by curling your torso up.
  5. Pause at the top, then slowly lower yourself back to the start.
  6. Focus on form and tension, not momentum.

Related Muscle Groups