Abdominal crunches

Recruiting the muscles of the midsection due to the flexion of the spine, the abdmonial crunch - or ab crunch - is a popular and effective exercise, reducing hip flexor recruitment in comparison to the full sit up.

Providing resistance to oppose the flexion of the spine, in the manner the crunch does, will strength and usually lead to hypertrophy of the muscles of the midsection. The crunch will provide little results for direct fat loss of the midsection. A more fruitful approach would be to implement a diet and cardiovascular training routine with the aim to reduce overall body fat.

Performing abdominal crunches

• Place mat on floor.
• Lay on mat, with knees bent and feet flat on floor.
• Bend arms at elbow and place hands close to ears so they are not involved in the execution.
• Keep a suitable clearance between your chin and chest throughout the exercise.
• Raise head and shoulders off floor, rounding the upper portion of your back.
• After peak contraction, slowly lower shoulders and head back to starting position.
• Repeat for desired number of repetitions.

Abdominal crunches courtesy of Fitness Uncovered - Bodybuilding & Fitness

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