Seated Turn Crunch
Twist your way to a stronger core! This seated crunch targets your obliques for a defined midsection.
The Seated Turn Crunch mainly works the core, with help from the lower back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Seated Turn Crunch Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques
Secondary
Lower Back (quadratus lumborum); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)
Seated Turn Crunch Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Seated Turn Crunch
Seated Turn and Crunch
Starting Position:
Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground. Your back should be tall, and your core engaged.
Lean slightly back so your upper body forms a V shape with your thighs.
Hand Position:
Place your hands behind your head, lightly supporting it with your fingertips. Avoid pulling on your neck.
Alternatively, you can cross your arms over your chest.
Movement:
Exhale and engage your core as you twist your torso to the right, bringing your left elbow toward your right knee while keeping your right foot planted.
Hold for a brief moment at the end of the twist, feeling the contraction in your obliques (side abdominal muscles).
Return to Center:
Inhale as you return to the starting position, maintaining control of the movement.
Repeat:
Perform the same twist to the left side, bringing your right elbow toward your left knee.
Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions (aim for 10-15 per side for beginners).
Form Tips:
Keep your lower back straight and avoid hunching your shoulders.
Focus on using your core muscles rather than momentum to perform the movement.
Ensure your neck stays relaxed and avoid pulling on it with your hands.
Cooling Down:
After completing your sets, sit up tall and take a moment to breathe deeply, stretching your back and sides for relaxation.
Safety Note: Consult a fitness professional if you have any health concerns or injuries before beginning any new exercise routine.
Seated Turn Crunch FAQs
What muscles does the Seated Turn Crunch work?
The Seated Turn Crunch mainly works the core, with help from the lower back. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and obliques.
What equipment do you need for the Seated Turn Crunch?
None. The Seated Turn Crunch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some Seated Turn Crunch variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Brettzel with Head Turn, Crossed Body Sit-Up Twist, Floor Lying Twisting Quarter Crunch and Seated 8-Leg Crunch.
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