Oblique Crunch tutorial
The oblique crunch trains the side abdominal muscles by rotating the torso toward the opposite knee. It needs no equipment and can be done at home.
How to perform
- Lie on your back with your feet raised on a chair or flat surface and your lower back pressed down.
- Place one hand beside your head and the other on the floor beside you.
- Lift the shoulder on the same side as the hand at your head.
- Rotate your torso so your elbow moves toward the opposite knee.
- Pause and squeeze for a moment.
- Lower slowly, then repeat on the other side.
Breathing: Exhale as you rise and inhale as you lower.
Key tips
- Focus on rotating the torso rather than just reaching the elbow to the knee.
- Keep the pace slow.
- Keep your head relaxed.
Common mistakes
- Pulling the head with the hand.
- Rushing the reps.
- Letting the lower back lift off the floor.
Safety: If your back or neck hurts, lower your feet and shorten the range of motion.
Abs and corePrimary muscle
Body weightEquipment
BeginnerLevel
HomeLocation
Suggested sets and reps
Beginner2–3 sets × 12–15 reps
Muscle mass3–4 sets × 10–15 reps
Strength3 sets × 8–10 reps
Fat burning3 sets × 15–20 reps
Pick a weight where the last 1 to 2 reps are hard but done with correct form.
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