Crunch (Band)

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
bands
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

An isolation exercise that targets the abdominal muscles using a resistance band to add tension to the traditional crunch movement.

Instructions

  1. Anchor a resistance band overhead or at head height to a fixed point.
  2. Kneel facing the anchor point with the band attached to a collar or held at your chest.
  3. Keep your feet firmly on the ground or in a stable position.
  4. Bend forward at the waist, bringing your elbows toward your knees.
  5. Focus on the contraction of your abdominal muscles.
  6. Return to the starting position in a controlled manner.
  7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Tips

  • Keep tension on the band throughout the entire movement.
  • Focus on spinal flexion rather than hip flexion.
  • Move slowly and deliberately to maximize abdominal engagement.
  • Avoid pulling on the band too aggressively to prevent neck strain.
  • This exercise is more challenging than a traditional crunch due to added resistance.

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
Gain strength 3 15 reps
Build muscle 3 18 reps
Build endurance 3 25 reps

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

beginner strength

Assisted Sit-Up (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about assisted sit-up (trx / suspension trainer)
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beginner strength
beginner strength

Crunch on Elbows (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about crunch on elbows (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength

Crunch on Hands (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about crunch on hands (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength

Crunch with Chest Taps (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about crunch with chest taps (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength
beginner strength
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Low Rollout (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about low rollout (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength

Resisted Sit-Up (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about resisted sit-up (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
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