Star crunches

Category

Core

Difficulty

Intermediate

Equipment

Bodyweight

Primary muscles

Rectus Abdominis, Obliques

Secondary muscles

Iliopsoas, Deltoids, Quadriceps Femoris

How to do it

1. Lie flat on your back with your arms and legs extended out to form an "X" shape. Keep your core engaged and your lower back pressed into the floor.
2. Crunch your abdominal muscles to lift your shoulders and legs off the floor and lift your arms and legs towards each other, reaching your hands towards your ankles.
3. Lower your arms and legs back to the starting position with control.
4. Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions.

Form tips

• Breathe steadily: exhale as you lift your arm and leg, and inhale as you return to the starting position.
• Focus on using your abdominal muscles to lift your arms and legs off the floor.
• Use a mat to provide cushioning and support for your back.