Fitness Champ Get the app

Abs exercise · barbell

Barbell Press Sit-Up

The barbell press sit-up is a barbell exercise that targets the abs, with the shoulders and chest assisting.

Animated demonstration of the barbell press sit-up
Barbell Press Sit-Up — demonstration
Target muscle
Abs
Also works
Shoulders, chest
Equipment
Barbell
Body part
Waist

How to do the barbell press sit-up

  1. Lie flat on your back on a mat with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground.
  2. Hold the barbell with an overhand grip, resting it on your chest.
  3. Engaging your abs, slowly lift your upper body off the ground, curling forward until your torso is at a 45-degree angle.
  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.

Sets and reps

For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the abs. The shoulders and chest work as secondary muscles. See all ab exercises or every barbell exercise.

Free on iPhone and Android

Track your barbell press sit-up in the app.

Every one of these 1,300+ exercises is in the app with its demo and steps. Build a plan for your goal, log every set, and the rest timer starts itself. No account, no ads.

QR code linking to the Fitness Champ download

Scan to get the app

Similar abs exercises