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Sicilian Roll-Up

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Sicilian Roll-Up.

HardAbsCore

About this exercise

A challenging floor core exercise that demands abdominal strength and spinal mobility to roll from a lying position up to seated or standing using only core power, without pushing off with the hands. The movement flows through the spine sequentially, building both strength and body control.

How to Perform

  • Lie on your back with legs straight and arms extended overhead
  • Engage your core and swing your arms forward to initiate momentum
  • Use abdominal strength to roll up sequentially through the spine
  • Continue the roll until you reach a seated or standing position
  • Pause briefly at the top, then reverse the movement by slowly rolling back down with control

Muscle Activation

Primary
AbsCore
Secondary
Obliques

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Sicilian Roll-Up

The Sicilian Roll-Up 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.