Crunches

BodyweightBeginnerIsolation
Animation from the GymStreak app · Get the app

Quick answer

Crunches is a beginner isolation bodyweight exercise that mainly works the abs.

Written by the GymStreak coaching team

Muscles worked

Front
Back

Primary

How to do Crunches

  1. 1

    Lie down on the floor looking at the ceiling with your knees bent and your hands behind your head. This is your starting position.

  2. 2

    Begin by rolling your shoulders off the ground, pushing your lower back into the ground to isolate your abdominal muscles.

  3. 3

    Lift your shoulders as far as you can without lifting your lower back off the ground.

  4. 4

    Pause the contraction for a moment at this point then slowly return to the starting position.

Form cues

  • Keep your abdominals pulled in so you feel more tension in your abs and so you don’t overarch your lower back.
  • Don’t pull on your neck with your hands or draw your elbows in.
  • Perform the reps very slowly, don't rush it!.

Related calculators

Read more

Perfect Your Crunches Form

Get detailed 3D demonstrations, track your progress, and receive personalized workout plans featuring this exercise.

GymStreak Exercise Demonstrations