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.

Optional Equipment

Legs-Up Crunch Twist Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques
Secondary
Deep Core (transverse abdominis); Lower Back (quadratus lumborum)
Legs-Up Crunch Twist Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Legs-Up Crunch Twist
Twist Crunch with Legs Up Instructions
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.
Engaging Your Core:
Tighten your abdominal muscles to prepare for the movement. This engages your core, helping you maintain stability throughout the exercise.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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