Crunch with Chest Taps (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
A suspension crunch variation combining hip flexion with rotation and chest contact, adding core engagement and coordination demands.
Instructions
- Anchor the TRX straps at mid-length.
- Position yourself facing away from the anchor with your feet in the TRX stirrups.
- Assume a plank position with your hands on the ground shoulder-width apart.
- Keep your core engaged and your body in a straight line.
- Pull your knees toward your chest by crunching at the hips and core.
- As your knees move forward, tap your chest with one hand or both hands.
- Return your hands to the ground as you extend your legs back to the starting position.
- Repeat, alternating which hand taps your chest or perform bilateral chest taps.
- Continue for the desired number of reps.
Tips
- The chest tap adds a rotational/stability component to the basic crunch movement.
- Maintain core tension throughout, even as you alternate hand positions.
- Keep hip flexion the primary driver of the knee movement toward the chest.
- Control the leg extension phase to maintain tension and form.
- Do not allow your hips to sag or pike excessively during the movement.
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.
Anti Rotation Press (Band)
Learn more about anti rotation press (band) beginner strength
Assisted Sit-Up (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
Learn more about assisted sit-up (trx / suspension trainer) beginner strength
Bicycle Crunch (Band)
Learn more about bicycle crunch (band) beginner strength
Crunch (Band)
Learn more about crunch (band) beginner strength
Crunch (Dumbbell)
Learn more about crunch (dumbbell) 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
Double Leg Raise
Learn more about double leg raise beginner strength
beginner strength
Kneeling Crunch (Band)
Learn more about kneeling crunch (band) beginner strength
Kneeling Crunch (Cable)
Learn more about kneeling crunch (cable) beginner strength
Leg Crunch (Medicine Ball)
Learn more about leg crunch (medicine ball) beginner strength
Low Rollout (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
Learn more about low rollout (trx / suspension trainer) intermediate strength
intermediate strength
Pallof Press (Band)
Learn more about pallof press (band) intermediate strength
Push Crunch (Dumbbell)
Learn more about push crunch (dumbbell) beginner strength
Resisted Sit-Up (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
Learn more about resisted sit-up (trx / suspension trainer) intermediate strength
Reverse Crunch (Band)
Learn more about reverse crunch (band) beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
Sit-Up (Medicine Ball)
Learn more about sit-up (medicine ball) beginner strength
Sit-Up (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
Learn more about sit-up (trx / suspension trainer) beginner strength
Stability Ball Reverse Crunch
Learn more about stability ball reverse crunch beginner strength
Standing Crunch (Cable)
Learn more about standing crunch (cable) beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
Toe Touch (Medicine Ball)
Learn more about toe touch (medicine ball) intermediate strength
intermediate strength