45-Degree Bicycle Twisting Crunch - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

45-Degree Bicycle Twisting Crunch

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the 45-Degree Bicycle Twisting Crunch.

MediumAbsCore

About this exercise

The 45-degree bicycle twisting crunch is an advanced core exercise performed with the torso held at a 45-degree incline from the floor, adding extra tension on the abs throughout the movement. Combining a bicycle pedalling motion with rotational twists intensely targets the rectus abdominis and obliques.

How to Perform

  • Lie on your back and curl your torso up to a 45-degree angle, keeping it there throughout the set
  • Place your hands lightly behind your head with elbows wide
  • Lift both feet off the floor, knees bent at roughly 90 degrees
  • Rotate your right elbow toward your left knee while extending the right leg
  • Reverse, rotating your left elbow toward your right knee while extending the left leg
  • Continue alternating in a controlled, cycling rhythm without lowering your torso
  • Avoid jerking your neck — drive the rotation from your obliques
  • Maintain the 45-degree incline to keep constant tension on the core

Muscle Activation

Primary
AbsCoreObliques
Secondary
GlutesQuadriceps

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the 45-Degree Bicycle Twisting Crunch

The 45-Degree Bicycle Twisting Crunch is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.