Appears in642 Workouts*

Bent-Leg Crunch

Master the crunch with elevated legs for deeper core engagement. This focused movement strengthens your upper abs while keeping your lower back protected. Perfect for building a solid foundation.

Exercise video 2
Chloe Ting
chloeting
@chloeting

Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat thumbnail
Yoga Mat

Muscle Groups

Primary

Secondary

Instructions

Setup

  • Lie flat on your back on a yoga mat.

  • Raise your legs so that your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle, with your shins parallel to the floor.

  • Keep your arms extended toward the ceiling or placed behind your head for support.

Execution

  • Engage your core by pulling your belly button toward your spine.

  • Exhale and lift your shoulders and upper back off the mat in a controlled crunching motion, reaching upward with your hands.

  • Focus on using your abdominal muscles to curl your torso forward, keeping your lower back pressed into the mat.

  • Hold the peak contraction for a split second.

  • Inhale as you slowly lower your torso back to the starting position without letting your shoulders fully relax on the floor between repetitions.