Cross-Body Crunch

About This Exercise

The Cross-Body Crunch is a dynamic core exercise that combines a crunch with a torso rotation. It primarily targets the abdominal muscles and obliques, enhancing core strength and stability through a cross-body patterning movement.

1Setup

1. Lie flat on your back on the floor. 2. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart. 3. Gently place your fingertips behind your head, elbows wide, without interlacing your fingers or pulling on your neck.

2Execution

1. From the starting position, engage your core by drawing your navel toward your spine. 2. Exhale and simultaneously lift your upper back off the floor while rotating your torso to bring your right elbow across your body toward your left knee. 3. Aim to bring your shoulder toward your knee, focusing on the contraction in your obliques and abs. 4. Inhale and with control, lower your torso and leg back to the starting position. 5. Repeat the movement on the opposite side, bringing your left elbow toward your right knee. Continue alternating.

Pro Tips

• Initiate the movement from your core, not momentum. Think about shortening the distance between your rib cage and hip.
• Keep your chin slightly tucked and avoid pulling on your neck with your hands. Your head should rest lightly in your fingertips.
• Exhale fully as you crunch and twist to maximize core engagement.
• Move slowly and with control, especially on the lowering phase, to maintain tension on the abdominal muscles.