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Abs exercise · weighted

Weighted Crunch

The weighted crunch is a weighted exercise that targets the abs, with the obliques assisting.

Animated demonstration of the weighted crunch
Weighted Crunch — demonstration
Target muscle
Abs
Also works
Obliques
Equipment
Weighted
Body part
Waist

How to do the weighted crunch

  1. Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground.
  2. Hold a weight plate or dumbbell on your chest.
  3. Engage your abs and lift your upper body off the ground, curling forward until your shoulder blades are off the ground.
  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 obliques work as secondary muscles. See all ab exercises or every weighted exercise.

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