Standing Crunch (Cable)

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
cable
Category
strength
Primary Muscles

A standing ab crunch using cable resistance with the pulley positioned above head height. Isolates the rectus abdominis with constant tension throughout.

Instructions

  1. Stand facing a cable machine with the pulley positioned above head height.
  2. Attach a rope handle or grab the cable with both hands above your head.
  3. Step back slightly to create tension in the cable before starting.
  4. Keep your hands at the sides of your head or behind your neck.
  5. Crunch your torso forward by flexing your abdominals, bringing elbows toward your hips.
  6. Move only your upper torso and avoid using your legs or back.
  7. Squeeze at the bottom of the movement and slowly return to the starting position.

Tips

  • Keep your knees slightly bent to allow for the crunching motion without arching the back.
  • Focus on the mind-muscle connection to ensure your abs are doing the work.
  • The constant cable tension makes this excellent for both muscle building and muscular endurance.
  • Avoid pulling down on the rope with your arms; instead, use your core to initiate the crunch.
  • Use moderate weight and higher reps (12-20) to fully stimulate the abdominals.

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 10 kg 7.5 kg
Build muscle 3 18 reps 7.5 kg 7.5 kg
Build endurance 3 25 reps 5 kg 5 kg

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)
beginner strength
beginner strength
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
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength

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
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength