A curling motion performed with the lower back supported on a stability ball that shortens the torso to engage the rectus abdominis and core stabilizers.
How to do the Crunch (Stability Ball)#
- Sit on the ball and walk your feet forward until the curve of your lower back rests on the ball, with knees bent and feet about shoulder-width apart.
- Cross your arms over your chest and keep your neck neutral.
- Exhale and contract your abdominal muscles to lift your upper torso toward your hips a few inches.
- Pause briefly at the top, then inhale and slowly lower back until your back is supported by the ball.
- Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Muscles worked#
Common mistakes#
- Using rapid momentum instead of a controlled abdominal contraction.
- Letting the ball roll or your feet move, which reduces stability.
- Arching the lower back excessively at the start or finish.
- Tensing or pulling the neck forward during the movement.
