Appears in642 Workouts*

Legs-Up Crunch Twist

Target your obliques with this core-carving crunch! Twist towards toned abs, one rep at a time.

Exercise video 2
Ms. Color
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat thumbnail
Yoga Mat

Muscle Groups

Primary

Secondary

Instructions

Twist Crunch with Legs Up Instructions

  1. Starting Position:

    • Lie on your back on a comfortable mat or floor.

    • Extend your legs straight up towards the ceiling, keeping them together.

    • Your arms should be bent and hands placed gently behind your head or crossed over your chest for support.

  2. Engaging Your Core:

    • Tighten your abdominal muscles to prepare for the movement. This engages your core, helping you maintain stability throughout the exercise.

  3. The Crunch:

    • Slowly lift your upper body off the ground by curling your torso towards your knees.

    • During this movement, keep your elbows wide and avoid pulling on your neck with your hands.

  4. Twisting:

    • As you lift, twist your torso to one side (let's say the right side).

    • Aim to bring your right elbow towards your left knee while keeping your legs raised.

    • Focus on using your abdominal muscles to control the movement rather than momentum.

  5. Return to Starting Position:

    • Lower your upper body back to the ground while keeping the legs elevated.

    • Make sure to control the descent and do not plop back down.

  6. Repeat:

    • Perform another crunch with a twist to the other side (left side).

    • Alternate sides for the desired number of repetitions, typically 10-15 reps per side.

  7. Completion:

    • After completing the desired sets, lower your legs back down to the floor and relax your body.

    • Take a moment to breathe deeply and allow your core to relax.

Tips:

  • Keep a slow and controlled pace to maximize the effectiveness of the exercise.

  • Breathe out as you crunch up and twist, and breathe in as you lower yourself back down.

  • If you're new to this exercise, start with fewer repetitions and gradually increase as you build strength.