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Dumbbell Crunch

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Muscles worked

High load
Abs · Upper
Low load
Abs · Lower

Primary muscles

How to do it

Lie on your back with knees bent and hold one dumbbell securely against your chest. Exhale as you curl your upper back off the floor without pulling your head forward. Lower slowly, keeping the movement focused on your trunk rather than rocking your hips.

Form cues

  • Curl your ribs toward your pelvis.
  • Keep your neck relaxed.
  • Lower with control.

Safety

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

NeckShoulderElbowWristLower back

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.