Arguably more effective than the traditional sit up, the stomach crunch is an exercise which can be performed anywhere and provide an intense and impressive workout to the muscles of the abdomen. Sit ups are often seen the staple of any abdominal workout, yet the exercise can be less than effective and cause stress to the lower back. The crunch is a variation of the full sit up, reducing the range motion to dismiss the upper portion of the sit up which provides little stimulus to the abdominals and can also heighten the stress to the lower back. The crunch can be performed on the floor, on a sit up board, or on an exercise ball for additional dynamics.
How to perform the crunch
The crunch is a simple exercise which can be performed almost anywhere, great for quick workouts and those who travel and stay in hotels.
1. Lay on the floor with knees bent and feet planted to the floor.
2. Bend arms and touch each ear with the elbows flared outward.
3. Raise your head and shoulders off the floor whilst ensuring the head remains fixed in position.
4. Stop when shoulders are raised off the floor and the abdominals are contracted.
5. Reverse the movement slowly.
6. Repeat for repetitions.
General comments
The crunch can be performed with other abdominal exercises to form a core workout. Such a workout will help develop and strengthen the important muscles of the core; abdominals, obliques, lower back and buttocks. The core is important for almost all lifts made in the gym, and can help prevent injury to the lower back.