Suspended Reverse Crunch

The Suspended Reverse Crunch is an exercise designed to target the core muscles, specifically the abdominals and hip flexors. This exercise requires the use of suspension straps which are secured with the handles hanging about a foot off of the ground. To begin the exercise, the user must move into a pushup plank position facing away from the rack and place their feet into the handles. They must maintain a straight posture, not allowing the hips to sag. The motion begins with flexing the knees and hips, drawing the knees to the torso while anteriorly tilting the pelvis to allow the spine to flex. At the top of the motion, the user must return to the starting position to complete one rep. This exercise helps to strengthen the core to improve overall physical fitness.

1. Start by securing a set of suspension straps with the handles hanging approximately a foot off the ground. Make sure they are stable and won’t move during the exercise. Position yourself facing away from the rack in a pushup plank position.
2. Place your feet into the handles of the suspension straps. Ensure that your body is in a straight line, with no sagging hips. This will be your starting position.
3. To begin the movement, flex your knees and hips, bringing your knees towards your torso. As you do this, tilt your pelvis forward, allowing your spine to flex.
4. At the top of the controlled motion, return to the starting position by extending your knees and hips, straightening your legs and bringing your feet back to the starting position in the handles.

1. Make sure the suspension straps are securely attached to a stable structure, such as a rack or bar.
2. Ensure that the handles of the suspension straps are hanging about a foot off the ground to provide enough room for your feet.
3. Before starting the exercise, position yourself in a pushup plank position facing away from the rack to ensure proper form.
4. When placing your feet into the handles, make sure they are secure and not slipping out during the movement.
5. Maintain a straight posture throughout the exercise, avoiding any sagging of the hips. This will help to engage the targeted muscles effectively.
6. As you flex your knees and hips, draw your knees towards your torso while anteriorly tilting your pelvis. This will allow for proper spinal flexion.
7. Control the movement and avoid any jerking or swinging motions, as this can strain the muscles and increase the risk of injury.
8. At the top of the motion, return to the starting position slowly and in a controlled manner.
9. Listen to your body and stop the exercise if you experience any pain or discomfort. It’s important to prioritize safety and avoid pushing through potential injuries.
10. Start with lighter resistance or fewer repetitions if you are new to this exercise to allow your body to adapt and build strength gradually.

The Suspended Reverse Crunch can be incorporated into workouts as a core exercise. It can be included in a circuit training routine or as a standalone exercise. Here are a few ways to incorporate this exercise into workouts: 1. Core Circuit: Add the Suspended Reverse Crunch to a circuit training routine that targets the core. Perform a set of 10-15 reps of the exercise, followed by other core exercises such as planks, Russian twists, and bicycle crunches. Repeat the circuit for a set number of rounds or time. 2. Superset: Pair the Suspended Reverse Crunch with another exercise that targets the lower body or upper body. For example, perform a set of squats or lunges, followed by a set of Suspended Reverse Crunches. Alternate between the two exercises for a set number of rounds or repetitions. 3. Tabata Intervals: Incorporate the Suspended Reverse Crunch into a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout. Perform the exercise for 20 seconds, followed by 10 seconds of rest. Repeat for a total of 4 minutes, alternating between the Suspended Reverse Crunch and other exercises such as burpees, mountain climbers, or jumping jacks. 4. Core Finisher: Use the Suspended Reverse Crunch as a finisher at the end of a workout to really challenge the core muscles. Perform as many reps as possible in a given time period, such as 1-2 minutes. This can be a great way to end a