Cable Seated Crunch

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

CoreCable5 technique steps

See the movement
Cable Seated Crunch: matching illustrations comparing the setup and movement positions
01Set your position02Make the movement

How to do cable seated crunch

  1. Seat on a flat bench with your back facing a high pulley.
  2. Grasp the cable rope attachment with both hands (with the palms of the hands facing each other) and place your hands securely over both shoulders. Tip: Allow the weight to hyperextend the lower back slightly. This will be your starting position.
  3. With the hips stationary, flex the waist so the elbows travel toward the hips. Breathe out as you perform this step.
  4. As you inhale, go back to the initial position slowly.
  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Cable Seated Crunch exercise illustration

Cable Seated Crunch: muscles worked

Primary focus: abdominals and trunk.

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 seated crunch?

Seat on a flat bench with your back facing a high pulley. Grasp the cable rope attachment with both hands (with the palms of the hands facing each other) and place your hands securely over both shoulders. Tip: Allow the weight to hyperextend the lower back slightly. This will be your starting position. With the hips stationary, flex the waist so the elbows travel toward the hips. Breathe out as you perform this step.

What muscles does cable seated crunch work?

Cable Seated 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 seated 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 seated crunch?

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

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