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Last updated February 2, 2026
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abs
Ab Swing (Machine)
Grip the handles and swing your legs upward using your core muscles. Avoid using momentum from your hips. Focus on crunching your abs to lift the weight.
Quick facts
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Mechanic
- Isolation
- Force
- Pull
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- Medium
- Calorie Burn
- Medium
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
abs
Secondary
side abs / obliques
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
weight machines / selectorized
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Hanging
Tracking parameters
repsweight
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Adjust the seat height of the ab swing machine so that your knees are aligned with the pivot point of the machine.
- Sit down on the machine and secure your feet under the foot pads.
- Step 2Position Your Body
- Lean back against the padded support, ensuring your back is flat and your core is engaged.
- Grip the handles provided on the machine with both hands, keeping your elbows slightly bent.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Take a deep breath and brace your core muscles as you prepare to swing.
- Ensure your feet are firmly placed and your body is stable.
- Step 4Perform the Swing
- Begin the movement by pulling your knees towards your chest while simultaneously leaning back slightly.
- Then, extend your legs out and lean forward, engaging your abdominal muscles throughout the motion.
- Step 5Control the Movement
- Maintain a controlled motion throughout the exercise, avoiding any jerky movements.
- Focus on using your abdominal muscles to drive the movement rather than relying on momentum.
- Step 6Repeat
- Continue to perform the swings for the desired number of repetitions, ensuring that your form remains consistent.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully lower your legs and sit upright.
- Release the handles and safely exit the machine.