PURPOSE OF EXERCISE: For upper and
lower abs.
EXECUTION: In all ab exercises the rib
cage contracts toward the pelvis or the
pelvis toward the rib cage—in this
exercise, both of these things happen. (1)
Sit crosswise on a bench, holding on to
the sides for support. Raise your legs
slightly and bend your knees and lean
backward at about a 45-degree angle.
(2) Using a scissors movement (this
exercise is sometimes called Scissors
Crunches), curl your upper body toward
your pelvis, rounding your back, and
simultaneously lift your knees up toward
your head. Feel the crunch as your rib
cage and pelvis squeeze together. From
this position, lower your torso and knees
back to the starting position.
