How To Do the Standing Crunch

  1. Loop a band over a sturdy object and hold an end in each hand. (You can also use a rope handle on a cable machine.) Stand with feet shoulder-width apart or a bit wider so you feel stable.
  2. Brace your abs and crunch your head toward your hips, pulling the band down. Breathe out on the way down and control as you slowly return to the start.

Core Crusher: Standing crunches work your abs from a position that’s very similar to how you set up for squats and deadlifts, so the core strength that carries over is immense.

Quick Tip: Do 3–4 sets of 6–8 reps. If you’re already lean, this move will thicken your abs and make them pop out.