Ab Crunch Machine
Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
ab crunch machine Category
strength Primary Muscles

An isolation exercise using a specialized machine to target the abdominals through a controlled crunch motion.
Instructions
- Select an appropriate resistance level and sit on the ab machine with your feet secured under the pads.
- Position your arms so your triceps rest comfortably on the arm pads, with your hands holding the handles.
- Adjust the machine so the handles align with your upper chest at the starting position.
- Exhale and crunch your torso forward by contracting your abs, bringing the handles toward your lower abdomen.
- Hold the contracted position briefly for maximum abdominal engagement.
- Inhale and slowly return to the starting position in a controlled manner.
- Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Tips
- Focus on using your abs to move the weight, not your legs or back.
- Avoid using momentum; perform this exercise with slow, controlled movements.
- The machine’s range of motion may vary; adjust the settings to match your body proportions.
- Use a weight that allows you to complete all repetitions with good form.
- This exercise is excellent for building isolated abdominal strength and definition.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 reps | 17 kg | 13 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps | 15 kg | 12 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps | 11 kg | 9 kg |
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