Plate Sit Up
Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
weight plate Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A weighted sit-up exercise where you hold a weight plate on your chest for added resistance.
Instructions
- Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, positioned about hip-width apart.
- Hold a weight plate against your chest with both hands, keeping your elbows bent.
- Engage your core and curl your shoulders off the ground, lifting your torso upward.
- Continue the movement until your torso is upright or your elbows touch your thighs.
- Pause briefly at the top of the movement.
- Lower your torso back down in a controlled manner to the starting position.
- Keep the plate secured close to your chest throughout the entire movement.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Tips
- Start with a lighter plate to establish proper form before progressing to heavier weights.
- Avoid pulling your head forward; keep your neck in a neutral position.
- Control the eccentric (lowering) portion of the movement for maximum muscle engagement.
- Anchor your feet or have a partner hold them if needed for stability.
- Breathe out as you sit up and breathe in as you lower down.
- Keep your lower back pressed to the floor to protect your spine.
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 | 6 kg | 4 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps | 5 kg | 4 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps | 4 kg | 3 kg |
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