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Resistance Band Standing Crunch

Beginner
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A standing core exercise using a resistance band anchored overhead that targets the rectus abdominis and obliques to build strength and definition through controlled spinal flexion.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Abs, Obliques

Secondary Muscles

Lower Back, Hip Flexors

Accessory Muscles

Quads, Glutes

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Abs

10/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Obliques

8/10

External Obliques, Internal Obliques

Lower Back

4/10

Erector Spinae

Hip Flexors

3/10

Iliopsoas

Quads

2/10

Glutes

2/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Secure a resistance band to an anchor point overhead. Stand facing away with feet shoulder-width apart, grasping both ends with arms extended upward and tension in the band.

  1. Engage your core and maintain a straight back.
  2. Flex your spine by contracting abs to pull the band down in an arc toward your knees.
  3. Bring rib cage toward pelvis without bending hips.
  4. Pause briefly at the bottom to squeeze abs.
  5. Slowly return to start position, resisting the band's pull.
  6. Inhale as you extend and repeat.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Core tight throughout
  • Move from abs, not arms
  • Back straight, no arch
  • Knees soft
  • Squeeze at bottom
  • Control the return

Breathing

Inhale as you return to the starting position; exhale as you crunch forward while bracing your core.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

From arms fully extended overhead to rib cage nearing pelvis, keeping spine flexed without hip flexion.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Inspect band for damage before use
  • Secure anchor firmly
  • Avoid snapping band toward face
  • Stop if back pain occurs
  • Do not exceed twice band's rest length

Spotting

Not required; perform solo with proper form and safeties.

Common Mistakes

  • Using momentum or arms to pull
  • Arching the back
  • Leaning too far forward
  • Jerky movements
  • Overstretching the band

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back pain
  • Recent abdominal surgery
  • Shoulder impingement

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion to overhead
  • Basic spinal flexion range

Build Up First

  • Core engagement awareness
  • Proper posture maintenance

Also known as

Standing Band Crunch, Banded Standing Abdominal Crunch, Overhead Band Crunch

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