About this exercise
The Twisting Crunch is a bodyweight core exercise that targets the obliques by adding a rotational component to the standard crunch. The twisting motion recruits the side abdominals more intensely than a straight crunch.
Twisting Crunch (Hands Behind Head)
Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Twisting Crunch (Hands Behind Head).
EasyObliques
How to Perform
- Lie flat on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor
- Place your hands lightly behind your head, elbows wide
- Engage your core and lift your shoulder blades off the floor
- Rotate your right elbow toward your left knee, twisting through the torso
- Return to center and lower back down under control
- Repeat on the opposite side, alternating with each rep
Muscle Activation
Primary
Obliques
Secondary
Abs
About the Twisting Crunch (Hands Behind Head)
The Twisting Crunch (Hands Behind Head) 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.
