Tuck Crunch

A core isolation exercise performed lying down that targets the abdominals through spinal flexion.
Instructions
- Lie down on the floor or an exercise mat with your back pressed against the floor.
- Cross your legs by wrapping one ankle around the other and elevate your legs until your thighs are perpendicular to the floor with a slight bend at the knees.
- Cross your arms and rest them on your chest.
- While keeping your lower back pressed against the floor, slowly lift your torso by crunching your abdominals.
- Exhale as you curl your torso upward toward your thighs.
- Slowly lower your torso back down to the starting position while inhaling.
Tips
- Keep your lower back pressed against the floor throughout the movement.
- Focus on curling your shoulders toward your hips, not pulling with your neck.
- Move slowly and with control for maximum muscle engagement.
- Avoid pulling on your neck or head 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.
intermediate strength
Ab Pulldown (Cable)
Learn more about ab pulldown (cable) intermediate strength
Ab Scissors
Learn more about ab scissors beginner strength
Bicycle Crunch
Learn more about bicycle crunch beginner strength
beginner strength
Crunch
Learn more about crunch beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
Crunches With Legs Up
Learn more about crunches with legs up intermediate strength
intermediate strength
Decline Crunch (Weighted)
Learn more about decline crunch (weighted) intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
expert strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
Lying Knee Raise
Learn more about lying knee raise beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
Toe Touch Crunch
Learn more about toe touch crunch beginner strength
beginner strength
Toes To Bar
Learn more about toes to bar beginner strength
intermediate strength