Ab Crunch Machine

An intermediate strength exercise for the abs, done with a gym machine.

Movement guide

Ab Crunch Machine

Demand · source-assignedMedium (unreviewed)

Equipment requiredStrength machine

Muscle focusAbs

Written instructions available. A verified 3D demonstration has not been built for this variation.

Make it easier or harder

Start where you can move well, then step up.

Easier option

Standing cable crunch demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoStanding cable crunchBeginner · A cable machine

Similar move, beginner grade.

This move

Ab Crunch MachineIntermediate · Strength machine

Intermediate grade (source-assigned).

Harder option

Ab wheel rollout from the knees demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoAb wheel rollout from the kneesAdvanced · An ab wheel

Similar move, advanced grade.

Imported reference · editorial review pending. Clinical review is pending.

This entry comes from an external exercise database. Its instructions and difficulty have not completed our editorial or qualified clinical review.

How to move

Select a light resistance and sit down on the ab machine placing your feet under the pads provided and grabbing the top handles. Your arms should be bent at a 90 degree angle as you rest the triceps on the pads provided. This will be your starting position.
At the same time, begin to lift the legs up as you crunch your upper torso. Breathe out as you perform this movement. Tip: Be sure to use a slow and controlled motion. Concentrate on using your abs to move the weight while relaxing your legs and feet.
After a second pause, slowly return to the starting position as you breathe in.

Practice and cautions

No dose has been assigned. Any timing or repetition examples in the imported instructions are source examples, not an individualized recommendation.

Imported community instructions and difficulty labels have not been independently reviewed for technique or individual suitability. Equipment labels may include additions inferred from the setup text; check the instructions for the exact support or alternatives. Stop for sharp or increasing pain, numbness or tingling; seek qualified guidance for symptoms, unfamiliar equipment or advanced skills.

Add to a routine Log a session

Sources and review status

Sources support the educational description; they do not establish that this exercise is suitable for you.

Free Exercise DB · community text ↗
Unlicense · Free Exercise DB contributors; derived from wrkout/exercises.json. Text import; no photographs or media. · Revision f00c92c7dcf1216a928a52c3706c7ce8e2f71ed5

No variation is labeled clinically validated.

Loading movement options…

What it works

Muscles

Main: Abs.

Equipment

Strength machine

Level

Intermediate (source-assigned, not yet reviewed). See the easier and harder options above.

Similar moves

Cable reverse crunch demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoCable reverse crunchIntermediate · A cable machine

Kneeling cable crunch demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoKneeling cable crunchIntermediate · A cable machine

Kneeling cable crunch with a twist demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoKneeling cable crunch with a twistIntermediate · A cable machine

Seated cable crunch demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoSeated cable crunchIntermediate · A cable machine + A bench or box

Weighted crunch demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoWeighted crunchIntermediate · Medicine ball

Barbell Ab Rollout demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoBarbell Ab RolloutIntermediate · A barbell

Browse more

Questions people ask

What muscles does the Ab Crunch Machine work?

Mainly the abs.

What equipment do I need for the Ab Crunch Machine?

Strength machine.

Is the Ab Crunch Machine good for beginners?

It is graded intermediate. The grade comes from the source database and has not been independently reviewed. If it is too hard right now, start with the Standing cable crunch.

What is an easier alternative to the Ab Crunch Machine?

Try the Standing cable crunch. It works similar muscles at a lower grade.

How do I make the Ab Crunch Machine harder?

Progress to the Ab wheel rollout from the knees, or add load, range or slower lowering once your form is solid.