Reverse Crunch

The Reverse Crunch is a foundational core exercise that targets the lower abdominals by lifting the hips off the floor through pelvic tilting. It effectively strengthens the rectus abdominis while minimizing strain on the neck and upper back often caused by traditional crunches.

Exercise movement reviewed by:Marie Braga, PT, DPT, CSCS
How Iridium Helps

Because the Reverse Crunch relies heavily on pelvic control, fatigue can quickly lead to form breakdown and lower back arching. The AI analyzes your rep consistency and RPE to detect when you are losing tension and relying on momentum, adjusting volume to prevent lumbar strain. If you have a history of lower back pain, the app utilizes this data to suggest regressions like the Dead Bug or modify the range of motion to ensure safety.

Form Cues

Do
  • Press your lower back firmly into the floor
  • Tilt your pelvis upward toward your ribcage
  • Exhale deeply as you lift your hips
  • Lower your hips slowly and with control
  • Keep your palms pressed down for stability
Don't
  • Don't swing your legs to create momentum
  • Don't arch your lower back at the bottom of the rep
  • Don't lift your head or neck off the floor
  • Don't let your feet touch the floor between reps

Common Mistakes

  • Using momentum to initiate the lift
  • Arching the lower back during the descent
  • Rushing the eccentric (lowering) phase
  • Pulling with the neck instead of the abs
  • Relying entirely on hip flexors

Muscles Worked

This exercise isolates the lower portion of the rectus abdominis by utilizing a posterior pelvic tilt to lift the hips. While the hip flexors assist in the movement, proper form ensures the tension remains on the abdominals, with the obliques acting as stabilizers throughout the range of motion.

Primary

Lower Abs

Secondary

Upper AbsHip Flexors

Get Personalized Coaching for Reverse Crunch

Don't guess your way through weights or workouts. Download Iridium for automatic, AI-powered coaching that adapts to your recovery and goals.

Coming SoonLearn More