Stability Ball Reverse Crunch
Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
exercise ball Category
strength Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
A lower abdominal isolation exercise performed while lying back on a stability ball, emphasizing the lower rectus abdominis contraction.
Instructions
- Lie back on the stability ball with your mid-back supported
- Plant your feet firmly on the floor with knees bent
- Place your hands behind your head for support
- Engage your lower abdominals to lift your knees toward your chest
- Roll your pelvis upward, bringing your knees and chest closer
- Feel the contraction in your lower abs
- Lower back to the starting position with control
- Repeat for desired reps
Tips
- Focus on the crunch in your lower abs rather than the movement
- Move slowly and deliberately for maximum muscle activation
- Avoid pulling on your head; let your abs drive the movement
- Maintain contact between your back and the ball for support
- Breathe out as you crunch and breathe in as you lower
- The ball’s support allows greater range of motion compared to floor crunches
- Keep your neck neutral to avoid strain; don’t pull your head forward
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 |
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