Crunches
How To Do Crunches
The traditional crunch exercise is typically performed on the floor. For added comfort, you may choose to do it on an exercise or yoga mat.
To execute a crunch:
Lie down on your back and ensure your feet are planted on the floor, hip-width apart.
Bend your knees and position your arms across your chest, or behind your head.
Engage your abdominal muscles and take a deep inhale.
Exhale as you lift your upper body, while keeping your head and neck relaxed.
Inhale again and gradually lower yourself back to the initial position.
Benefits
Targets the abdominal muscles. Crunches primarily focus on strengthening and toning the abdominal muscles, which can contribute to achieving a more defined midsection.
No gym equipment required. Crunches are a convenient bodyweight exercise that can be performed without the need for specialized equipment or a gym. This makes them easily accessible and suitable for home workouts or when you're on the go.
Suitable for beginners. Crunches are generally considered a beginner-friendly exercise, as they can be modified to match different fitness levels and gradually increased in difficulty as your core strength improves. This makes them a great starting point for individuals new to fitness or abdominal exercises.
Safety tips
Utilize your core muscles to lift your upper body. Avoid relying on your head or neck to initiate the movement as it can raise the risk of injury.
Focus on moving in a deliberate and controlled manner. Quick or hasty movements may not effectively engage the targeted muscles.
While you have the option to position your hands behind your head, be cautious as this can strain your neck. It is advisable to attempt this hand placement once you have become proficient in maintaining proper form.