Exercise technique

crunch (hands overhead)

A crunch variation where the hands are extended overhead, increasing the challenge to the abdominal muscles and requiring greater core engagement.

How do you perform this exercise?

  1. Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground.
  2. Extend your arms straight above your head.
  3. Engaging your abs, lift your upper body off the ground, curling forward towards your knees.
  4. Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower your upper body back down to the starting position.
  5. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Which other muscles are involved?

Hip flexors.

How do you log your sets?

How do you track progressive overload?

Source: ExerciseDB catalogue and demonstration. Related movements are options to compare, not equivalent loads or a prescribed progression.

Alternatives to explore

STARK is a strength training tracker for iPhone and Apple Watch. Log sets, repetitions and weights, then follow your progress. Core features are free. Explore STARK’s features