Toe Touch Crunch
Also known as: Lying Toe Touch, Toe Reach Crunch, Toe Reaches
Core
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Description
Lie on your back with both legs raised vertically and reach toward the toes with straight arms. Lift the shoulders in a short abdominal crunch, then lower them under control while keeping the legs still. The movement works the abdominals without bringing the torso into a full sit-up.
How to Perform
- Lie on your back with your legs straight and raised toward the ceiling. Keep your feet about hip-width apart.
- Extend your arms straight up toward your toes, with your palms facing inward.
- Press your lower back gently into the floor and brace your abdominal muscles.
- Exhale as you lift your shoulders and upper back off the floor, reaching your hands toward your toes.
- Keep your legs as still as possible and avoid pulling your head forward with your neck.
- Pause briefly at the top when your abs are fully contracted.
- Inhale as you lower your shoulders and upper back under control, then repeat.
What Muscles Work
Primary Muscle:
Secondary Muscles:
Tips
- Think of curling the ribs toward the pelvis.
- Keep the chin slightly tucked and the neck relaxed.
- Look toward the feet as you rise.
- Reach with open hands rather than trying to grab the toes.
- Pause briefly at the top to feel the abdominal contraction.
Common Mistakes
- Swinging the arms to create momentum rather than curling the torso up.
- Keeping the shoulders on the floor and only reaching with the hands.
- Arching the lower back instead of keeping it pressed into the floor.
- Letting the legs drift back toward the body or bend excessively.
- Rushing the reps and dropping the torso without control.
- Holding the breath instead of exhaling as you crunch up.
Recommended Exercises
Explore exercises related to Toe Touch Crunch for abs training and similar movement patterns.
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