How to do it
Exhale fully as you crunch up and pause for one count at the top.
- 1
Lie on a bench with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
- 2
Hold a weight plate or dumbbell across your chest or with arms extended.
- 3
Crunch up and twist your torso, bringing your right elbow towards your left knee.
- 4
Lower back down and then crunch up, twisting to bring your left elbow towards your right knee.
- 5
Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, alternating sides.
Expert tip
Keep your neck neutral and avoid pulling on it with your hands to prevent strain.
Common mistakes
- ✕Holding the weight too far from the chest
- ✕Bouncing off the bench between reps
- ✕Lifting the hips to drive the torso upward