Crunch (hands overhead) - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Crunch (hands overhead)

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Crunch (hands overhead).

EasyAbs

About this exercise

The overhead-hands crunch is a bodyweight abdominal exercise performed on the floor. Extending the arms overhead lengthens the lever arm, increasing the difficulty and range of motion compared to a standard crunch, while keeping the focus on the rectus abdominis.

How to Perform

  • Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat on the floor, and arms fully extended overhead
  • Engage your core and curl your upper back off the floor, reaching your arms forward toward your knees
  • Hold briefly at the top, squeezing your abdominals
  • Slowly lower your torso back to the floor with control
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Abs
Secondary
Obliques

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Crunch (hands overhead)

The Crunch (hands overhead) 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.