Machine Ab Crunch

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Beginner

Seated machine isolation exercise that targets the rectus abdominis to build core strength and hypertrophy; guided motion focuses contraction without heavy stabilizer demand.

About Exercise

Equipment

AB Crunch Machine

Difficulty

1/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Abs

Secondary Muscles

Obliques

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy

Training Style

Bodybuilding

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Abs

10/10

Rectus Abdominis

Obliques

5/10

External Obliques, Internal Obliques

Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Sit on the ab crunch machine with back against the pad, feet flat on the floor or rests, and grasp the handles with elbows bent at 90 degrees.

  1. Adjust machine for proper alignment with torso.
  2. Brace core and exhale as you crunch forward by flexing spine.
  3. Squeeze abs at peak contraction.
  4. Inhale and slowly return to start position.
  5. Maintain tension without letting weight stack rest.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Initiate with core
  • Keep back flat
  • Squeeze at top
  • Control return

Breathing

Exhale during the crunch and inhale on the return.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Flex spine until ribs approach pelvis, then return until arms are extended but without full relaxation.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid excessive weight to prevent back strain
  • Consult professional for spinal conditions
  • Do not hyperextend spine

Spotting

Not required; machine provides safety.

Common Mistakes

  • Pulling with arms
  • Using momentum
  • Straining neck
  • Letting weight rest

When to Avoid

  • Acute spinal injuries
  • Herniated discs

Flexibility Needed

  • Basic spinal flexion range

Also known as

Ab Crunch Machine, Seated Ab Crunch, Machine Crunch

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