Reverse Crunch: How-to, Tips & More

The Reverse Crunch is a beginner isolation exercise for your abs. You do it with bodyweight. It is a good fit when your goal is muscle growth.

Besides the abs, it also works your hip flexors, so it fits well in a session that trains those muscles together.

Muscles worked

Abs muscle

Abs

Primary

Hip flexors muscle

Hip flexors

Secondary

How to do the Reverse Crunch

  1. Lie on your back with your knees bent and arms by your sides.
  2. Lift your knees toward your chest.
  3. Curl your hips off the floor at the top.
  4. Lower slowly until your feet almost touch the floor.

Reverse Crunch tips

  • The hip curl at the top is what works the abs.

Sets and reps

Most lifters do well with 12 to 25 reps per set, and 12 to 25 reps is where this exercise tends to work best. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve on every set, and add weight once you can complete all your sets at the top of the range. It also works well in a superset with an exercise for the opposite muscles.

Equipment

Bodyweight

Type

Isolation

Reverse Crunch alternatives

More abs exercises

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the Reverse Crunch work?

The Reverse Crunch mainly works your abs, with help from your hip flexors.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A good starting point is 12 to 25 reps per set, and many lifters get the best results between 12 to 25 reps. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.

Is the Reverse Crunch good for beginners?

Yes. The Reverse Crunch is considered beginner and is a good choice if you are new to training. Start light and focus on form.

What equipment do I need for the Reverse Crunch?

You need bodyweight.

Reverse Crunch demonstration

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