Appears in642 Workouts*

45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch

Supercharge your core! This twisting crunch targets obliques for a tighter waistline. Feel the burn with every rotation!

The 45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch is a compound exercise that mainly works the core, with help from the back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch demo video 2
Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Optional Equipment

Incline Bench
Incline Bench
Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques

Secondary

Deep Core (transverse abdominis); Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior)

How to do the 45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch

45 Degree Bicycle Twisting Crunch Instructions

Positioning:

  1. Set a bench to a 45-degree angle. Lie down on your back, ensuring your lower back is pressed against the bench.

  2. Position your feet on the bench, with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle.

  3. Place your hands lightly behind your head or at your temples, keeping your elbows wide to avoid straining your neck.

Movement:

  1. Engage your core muscles by pulling your belly button towards your spine.

  2. Begin the movement by lifting your shoulder blades off the bench, while keeping your lower back in contact with it.

  3. Simultaneously, twist your torso to one side, bringing your elbow towards the opposite knee as you extend the other leg straight.

  4. Hold the position briefly at the top of the movement.

  5. Return to the starting position and repeat the motion on the other side, alternating sides.

  6. Continue for the desired number of repetitions, maintaining controlled movements throughout to engage your core effectively.

Tips:

  • Breathe steadily; exhale as you twist and inhale as you return to the starting position.

  • Focus on quality over quantity; ensure each movement is controlled.

  • Avoid pulling on your neck; your hands should just support your head.

45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch FAQs

What muscles does the 45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch work?

The 45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch mainly works the core, with help from the back. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and obliques.

What equipment do you need for the 45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch?

None. The 45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

Is the 45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What are some 45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Side-Bend Hyperextension, 45-Degree Twisting Hyperextension, Bicycle and Bicycle-Crunch.

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