Loaded oblique crunch emphasizing side flexion/rotation for the waist muscles.
- +Targets obliques with load
- +Stable and easy to learn
- +Good for hypertrophy-focused core work
- –Over-rotation can irritate spine
- –Hip shift can steal tension from obliques
This exercise targets:
Core
Obliques
Abs
Ratios are approximate and can vary depending on form and technique.
How to perform
- Adjust the seat and pad so the handles/pads sit snugly on your shoulders/upper torso
- Sit tall with your back against the pad and feet planted; brace your core
- Rotate slightly toward the side you’re training if the machine allows it
- Crunch by pulling your ribs down toward your hip on that side (side-bend/rotate)
- Keep the movement small and controlled; don’t yank with your arms or shoulders
- Pause briefly at the bottom, then return slowly until your torso is upright
- Exhale as you crunch, inhale as you come back up
- Switch sides and repeat with the same range of motion and tempo
