Opposite Crunch
Description
The opposite crunch, also called the cross body crunch or oblique crunch, is performed lying on the floor by bringing one elbow to the opposite knee. The diagonal motion targets the obliques heavily while still working the rectus abdominis. It is a strong oblique-focused alternative to standard crunches.
Equipment Required
Opposite Crunch Instructions
- Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
- Place your hands behind your head with elbows wide.
- Brace your core and engage your abs.
- Crunch your right elbow toward your left knee while lifting the knee toward the elbow.
- Twist through the obliques to bring the elbow and knee together.
- Squeeze your obliques at the top of the crunch.
- Lower back to the starting position with control.
- Repeat on the other side, alternating elbows and knees each rep.
Opposite Crunch Form & Visual
Opposite Crunch Benefits
- Targets obliques heavily
- Builds rotational core strength
- Strong functional movement pattern
- Bodyweight ab work
- Useful as a finisher
- Easy to scale by changing leverage
Opposite Crunch Muscles Worked
- Obliques (internal and external)
- Rectus abdominis
- Hip flexors
Opposite Crunch Variations & Alternatives
- Bicycle Crunch
- Russian Twist
- Crunch
- Side Crunch
