V-Up Hold
Challenge your core! Hold the V-Up position to strengthen your abs and improve stability. Feel the burn!
The V-Up Hold mainly works the core, with help from the shoulders. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
V-Up Hold Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis)
Secondary
Hip Flexor (iliopsoas); Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid)
V-Up Hold Variations and Alternatives
How to do the V-Up Hold
Start by lying flat on your back with your arms extended behind your head and legs straight out in front of you, just like in the first image your provided.
Engage your core and keep your legs together.
Simultaneously lift your upper body and legs off the ground, reaching your hands towards your feet. Your body should form a “V” shape at the top of the movement. This is the position shown in the second and fourth images.
Keep your core tight, legs straight, and arms extended as you hold this "V" position.
Hold the position for as long as you can maintain good form without compromising your lower back. Try to hold it for a set duration, such as 10-30 seconds, or more if you’re able.
Slowly lower yourself back down to the starting position.
Remember to breathe steadily throughout the hold, and increase the duration as your core strength improves over time.
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V-Up Hold FAQs
What muscles does the V-Up Hold work?
The V-Up Hold mainly works the core, with help from the shoulders. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis.
What equipment do you need for the V-Up Hold?
None. The V-Up Hold is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What are some V-Up Hold variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Bicycle V-Up, Boat Pose, Bottom-Up and Dish Hold.
Training calculators
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