core beginner

Bicycle Crunch

Overview

Research has shown the bicycle crunch to be one of the highest rectus abdominis and oblique activating exercises. Combining rotation with flexion targets the entire core.

Muscles Trained

Primary core
Secondary
ObliquesHip Flexors

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Lie on your back, hands lightly behind the head, legs lifted.

  2. 2

    Draw one knee toward the chest while rotating the opposite elbow toward it.

  3. 3

    Simultaneously straighten the other leg.

  4. 4

    Alternate sides in a pedalling motion.

  5. 5

    Keep the movement slow and deliberate.

Benefits

  • Highest EMG-tested ab activation of any bodyweight movement

  • Works both the rectus abdominis and obliques simultaneously

  • No equipment required

Form Tips

  • Slow reps beat fast, sloppy ones every time

  • Don't pull the neck — rotate from the torso

Watch Video Tutorial

Search YouTube for demonstration

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