Appears in642 Workouts*

Ab Scissors

Tone your abs with Lying Scissors Cross! A core-strengthening exercise you can do anywhere.

The Ab Scissors mainly works the core and hip adductors (inner thighs). No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ab Scissors demo video 2
Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Ab Scissors Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Hip Adductors

Secondary

Hip Flexor (iliopsoas); Obliques

How to do the Ab Scissors

  1. Lie down on your back on a comfortable surface with your legs extended and your hands placed beneath your head or by your sides for support.

  2. Lift your shoulders slightly off the ground to engage your core muscles.

  3. Lift both legs off the ground, keeping them straight. Hover them a few inches above the ground.

  4. Begin the exercise by moving one leg up towards the ceiling while lowering the other leg towards the ground without touching it.

  5. Switch movements and alternate the positions of your legs by crossing them over each other in a scissor-like motion.

  6. Continue this alternating leg-crossing motion while maintaining the tension in your core.

  7. Breathe evenly throughout the exercise and focus on using your core muscles to move your legs.

  8. Perform the exercise for the desired number of repetitions or duration, ensuring that you maintain proper form throughout.

Make sure that your lower back stays in contact with the ground during the exercise to prevent strain. If you experience discomfort, adjust your leg height or the range of motion.

---

Ab Scissors FAQs

What muscles does the Ab Scissors work?

The Ab Scissors mainly works the core and hip adductors (inner thighs). The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and hip adductors.

What equipment do you need for the Ab Scissors?

None. The Ab Scissors is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Ab Scissors variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Criss-Cross Leg Raises, Lying Abdominal Scissors Crunch, Lying Air Cycle and Lying Criss-Cross Leg.

Training calculators

Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.