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Cable Crunch

Learn how to do cable crunch with a clear setup, controlled movement, and a technique you can repeat.

CoreCable5 technique steps

See the movement

Silent movement demonstration. Use the step-by-step instructions below for the setup and technique.

How to do cable crunch

  1. Attach a rope handle to a high pulley and kneel down facing away from the machine.
  2. Hold the rope handle with both hands and place it behind your head, keeping your elbows out to the sides.
  3. Keeping your hips stationary, flex your waist and crunch your torso down towards your thighs.
  4. Pause for a moment at the bottom, then slowly return to the starting position.
  5. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Cable Crunch exercise illustration

Cable Crunch: muscles worked

Primary focus: abdominals and trunk.

Core
Better reps before more weight.

Start with a version you can control. Record the same setup and range each time. Add reps or a small load increase when you can repeat the movement without changing the technique.

Plan your next set

Frequently asked questions

How do you do cable crunch?

Attach a rope handle to a high pulley and kneel down facing away from the machine. Hold the rope handle with both hands and place it behind your head, keeping your elbows out to the sides. Keeping your hips stationary, flex your waist and crunch your torso down towards your thighs.

What muscles does cable crunch work?

Cable Crunch primarily trains the abdominals and trunk. The exact demand depends on your setup, range, and chosen load.

What is the best technique for cable crunch?

Set the trunk position before beginning the movement or hold. Use the intended trunk action rather than arm or leg momentum. End the set when the position changes; longer is useful only while you keep control.

What can I do instead of cable crunch?

Related options include Bosu Cable Crunch With Side Bends, Cable Reverse Crunch, Cable Seated Crunch. These can have different equipment, range, and movement demands. Open the guides below to compare the setups before choosing a replacement.

Compare related movement setups

Browse the directory pages containing cable crunch and the related movements above to compare equipment and technique choices.

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