Appears in642 Workouts*

Legs-Up Crunch Twist

Target your obliques with this core-carving crunch! Twist towards toned abs, one rep at a time.

The Legs-Up Crunch Twist is a compound exercise that mainly works the core, with help from the lower back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Legs-Up Crunch Twist demo video 2
Ms. Color
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Legs-Up Crunch Twist Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques

Secondary

Deep Core (transverse abdominis); Lower Back (quadratus lumborum)

How to do the Legs-Up Crunch Twist

Twist Crunch with Legs Up Instructions

  1. Starting Position:

    • Lie on your back on a comfortable mat or floor.

    • Extend your legs straight up towards the ceiling, keeping them together.

    • Your arms should be bent and hands placed gently behind your head or crossed over your chest for support.

  2. Engaging Your Core:

    • Tighten your abdominal muscles to prepare for the movement. This engages your core, helping you maintain stability throughout the exercise.

  3. The Crunch:

    • Slowly lift your upper body off the ground by curling your torso towards your knees.

    • During this movement, keep your elbows wide and avoid pulling on your neck with your hands.

  4. Twisting:

    • As you lift, twist your torso to one side (let's say the right side).

    • Aim to bring your right elbow towards your left knee while keeping your legs raised.

    • Focus on using your abdominal muscles to control the movement rather than momentum.

  5. Return to Starting Position:

    • Lower your upper body back to the ground while keeping the legs elevated.

    • Make sure to control the descent and do not plop back down.

  6. Repeat:

    • Perform another crunch with a twist to the other side (left side).

    • Alternate sides for the desired number of repetitions, typically 10-15 reps per side.

  7. Completion:

    • After completing the desired sets, lower your legs back down to the floor and relax your body.

    • Take a moment to breathe deeply and allow your core to relax.

Tips:

  • Keep a slow and controlled pace to maximize the effectiveness of the exercise.

  • Breathe out as you crunch up and twist, and breathe in as you lower yourself back down.

  • If you're new to this exercise, start with fewer repetitions and gradually increase as you build strength.

Legs-Up Crunch Twist FAQs

What muscles does the Legs-Up Crunch Twist work?

The Legs-Up Crunch Twist 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 Legs-Up Crunch Twist?

None. The Legs-Up Crunch Twist is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

Is the Legs-Up Crunch Twist a compound exercise?

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

What are some Legs-Up Crunch Twist variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the 45-Degree Twisting Bicycle-Crunch, Twisting Air Crunch, Barbell Leg Press Twist and Bicycle V-Up.

Training calculators

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