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Barbell Sit-Up

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Muscles worked

High load
Abs · Upper
Medium load
Core and Hip flexors

Not shown on the map: Hip flexors

Primary muscles

How to do it

Lie on your back with knees bent and hold a light barbell securely against the front of your shoulders. Curl your trunk, then continue into a seated position without jerking the bar. Reverse the movement slowly.

Form cues

  • Begin by curling your trunk.
  • Lower without dropping backward.

Safety

Talk to a professional before this exercise if you have any of the following:

NeckShoulderElbowWristUpper backLower backHip

This is general exercise reference, not medical advice. Stop and consult a qualified professional if an exercise causes pain, and never work through joint pain.