core beginner

Cable Crunch

Cable MachineRope Attachment

Overview

A weighted crunch using a cable for constant resistance throughout the range of motion. Allows progressive overload on the rectus abdominis — the six-pack muscle — unlike any other crunch variation.

Muscles Trained

Primary core
Secondary
Hip Flexors (slightly)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Kneel in front of the cable machine with rope at the highest position.

  2. 2

    Hold the rope beside your head (not pulling with your arms).

  3. 3

    Crunch your rib cage toward your hips — spine flexion is the goal, not hip flexion.

  4. 4

    Squeeze abs hard at the bottom.

  5. 5

    Return with a controlled eccentric.

Benefits

  • Adds progressive overload to the rectus abdominis

  • Constant tension from the cable

  • Builds visible ab definition when combined with low body fat

Form Tips

  • The arms hold the rope — they don't pull it. All movement comes from the abs.

  • Round your back as you crunch — that is the correct form for spine flexion

Watch Video Tutorial

Search YouTube for demonstration

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