Instructions
Preparation
- Sit on floor or mat. Lie supine with hands on floor over head.
Execution
- Simultaneously raise straight legs and torso. Reach toward raised feet. Return to starting position. Repeat.
Comments
- Keep knees straight throughout movement. Begin each repetition with upper back on floor to allow abdominal muscles to work dynamically. The Rectus Abdominis and Obliques dynamically contract only when actual waist flexion occurs. With no waist flexion, Rectus Abdominis and External Oblique will only isometrically contract to stabilize the pelvis and waist during hip flexion. See Spot Reduction Myth and Lower Ab Myth. This exercise is typically performed without added resistance although a medicine ball and ankle straps can be used.
Classification
| Utility: | Basic |
| Mechanics: | Compound |
| Force: | Pull |