Alternating Stepback Crunch
Step back and crunch your way to a stronger core! This exercise combines a lunge with a crunch for a full-body burn.
The Alternating Stepback Crunch mainly works the core, with help from the quads and glutes & hips. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Alternating Stepback Crunch Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques
Secondary
Quads (quadriceps femoris); Glutes (gluteus maximus)
Alternating Stepback Crunch Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Alternating Stepback Crunch
Starting Position:
Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Keep your arms bent at your sides, and engage your core (tighten your stomach muscles).
Step Back:
Step back with your right foot, lowering your body into a lunge position. Your left knee should be directly above your left ankle, and your right knee should hover just above the ground.
Ensure your back stays straight, and don’t lean forward.
Opposite Crunch Movement:
As you lunge back, raise your left arm straight up towards the ceiling.
Simultaneously, lift and bring your right knee up towards your chest and your right elbow down towards your knee.
Return to Start:
Lower your right leg back down and return to the standing position while lowering your left arm back to your side.
This completes one repetition.
Repetition:
Repeat the movement for a set number of repetitions (e.g., 10-15), then switch legs and repeat on the other side.
Key Tips:
Maintain a strong core throughout the exercise to help with balance and support.
Focus on smooth movements rather than speed to ensure proper form.
Keep your head up and look forward while performing the exercise.
Alternating Stepback Crunch FAQs
What muscles does the Alternating Stepback Crunch work?
The Alternating Stepback Crunch mainly works the core, with help from the quads and glutes & hips. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and obliques.
What equipment do you need for the Alternating Stepback Crunch?
None. The Alternating Stepback Crunch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Alternating Stepback Crunch go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Alternating Stepback Crunch variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Alternating Side-Step Bend, Stepback Diagonal & Reach, Lateral Shuffle Crunch and Alternating Crunch.
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