Crunches

What it is

This is a fundamental abdominal isolation exercise that strengthens your core. You'll lie on your back and lift your shoulders off the floor, engaging your abdominal muscles. Focus on controlled movement to effectively target your midsection and build foundational strength.

Technique tips

• Keep your hands lightly at your temples, avoiding pulling on your head or neck.
• Actively press your lower back into the floor throughout the entire movement.
• Lift only your shoulders and upper back a few inches off the floor.
• Exhale as you lift, then powerfully contract your abdominals at the top.
• Move slowly and with control to prevent using momentum.

How to track your progress

Log reps, and add the extra load if you wear a belt or a vest. Straddly counts your bodyweight in the estimated max, so added weight and extra reps both show up as progress, and new records are flagged during the session.