Appears in642 Workouts*

Straight-Leg Crunch

The Straight-Leg Crunch mainly works the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

MadFit
madfit
@madfit

Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Straight-Leg Crunch Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis)

Secondary

Obliques

How to do the Straight-Leg Crunch

Setup

  1. Lie flat on your back on a mat.

  2. Extend your legs straight up toward the ceiling, keeping them together and locked if possible.

  3. Extend your arms straight up toward your feet, palms facing in.

Execution

  1. Engage your core by drawing your belly button toward your spine.

  2. Exhale as you lift your shoulder blades off the floor, reaching your fingertips toward your toes.

  3. Focus on contracting your abdominal muscles at the top of the movement.

  4. Inhale as you slowly lower your shoulders back to the floor, maintaining control throughout the return phase.

  5. Keep your legs as still as possible throughout the movement.

Straight-Leg Crunch FAQs

What muscles does the Straight-Leg Crunch work?

The Straight-Leg Crunch mainly works the core. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis.

What equipment do you need for the Straight-Leg Crunch?

None. The Straight-Leg Crunch is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

Training calculators

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