Twisting Crunch
Learn how to perform Twisting Crunch, a Core exercise, with setup, breathing and common mistakes.
Twisting Crunch · Preview
Setup
Lie on your back with your knees bent and both hands lightly behind your head. Keep your back down and brace your core to prepare to curl and rotate your upper body.
Start phase
Curl up while rotating one shoulder toward the opposite knee. Do not pull your elbow; rotate your ribs so your obliques and core tighten together.
End phase
Lower slowly to center and switch sides. Keep your core engaged and prevent your back from lifting even when your shoulder reaches the floor.
Target muscles
Focus on your side tightening as you rotate rather than lifting high. Cut your speed in half if you cannot feel your obliques.
Common mistakes
Pulling your neck or moving only your elbow toward the knee strains your neck and reduces engagement. Prioritize rib rotation even if you use a short range.
Breathing
Exhale as you curl and rotate, then inhale as you return to center. A long exhale helps your obliques and core tighten more deeply.
Coach tip
You only need to lift enough for your shoulder to leave the floor. Pause for 1 second at the most rotated point to reduce momentum.
