Hips hinge to generate the crunch
Hip flexion replaces spinal flexion; abs underloaded.
Overactive muscles
Hip flexorsErector spinae
Corrective work
Foam RollHip flexors↗StretchHalf-kneeling hip flexor stretch↗Core · Core
Standing Cable Crunch
Coaching cues
- High pulley; rope in both hands; stand facing the cable
- Hinge slightly at the hips; crunch the spine down
- Hands stay at the forehead — the spine does the work
- Control the return — full eccentric stretch at the top
Common faults 2
Pulling with the arms — elbows drift down
Triceps and shoulders assist; rectus abdominis loses the load.
Overactive muscles
Anterior deltoidUpper trapezius
Corrective work
Foam RollUpper traps↗StretchLevator scapulae stretch↗