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    1. Home
    2. Exercises
    3. Curl-up

    Curl-up Exercise Guide

    Curl-up demonstration

    Exercise Profile

    Target
    Rectus Abdominis
    Equipment
    Body weight
    Body Part
    Waist
    Primary Muscle
    Rectus Abdominis
    Secondary Muscles
    Obliques, Iliopsoas
    Intensity
    medium
    Category
    strength
    Skill Level
    beginner
    Estimated Calories
    4
    Alternate Names
    Abdominal curl-up

    How to: Curl-up

    1. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
    2. Cross your arms over your chest or place your hands behind your head.
    3. Engage your core and lift your upper body off the ground, curling towards your knees.
    4. Hold for a second at the top, then slowly lower your back to the mat.

    Common Mistakes

    • Pulling too hard on the neck.
    • Using momentum instead of controlled movement.
    • Not engaging the core muscles fully.

    Modifications

    • Perform the curl-up with knees bent to lessen strain on the lower back.
    • Use a stability ball for added support.

    Tips

    • Engage your core throughout the movement.
    • Avoid pulling on your neck; your hands should lightly support your head.

    Curl-up Alternatives

    Crunch (on bosu ball)

    Crunch (on bosu ball)

    Body Part: Waist

    Flexion Leg Sit up (bent knee)

    Flexion Leg Sit up (bent knee)

    Body Part: Waist

    Air Bike

    Air Bike

    Body Part: Waist

    Tags

    core
    strength
    abs
    beginner
    bodyweight
    flexibility

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