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Last updated February 2, 2026
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abs

Crunch (Side) - Kneeling (Cable)

Kneel sideways to high pulley. Hold rope near head. Crunch down and sideways towards the floor.

Quick facts

Difficulty
Easy
Mechanic
Isolation
Force
Pull
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
Low
Hypertrophy
Low
Calorie Burn
Medium

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

side abs / obliques

Secondary

abs

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

cable

Movement pattern

Unilateral

Posture

Kneeling

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Attach a cable handle to a low pulley on a cable machine.
    • Kneel next to the machine, ensuring that the cable is positioned at your side.
  2. Step 2Position Yourself
    • Kneel on the floor with one knee on the ground and the other foot flat on the floor for stability.
    • Grab the cable handle with the hand closest to the machine, keeping your other hand on your hip or behind your head.
  3. Step 3Engage Your Core
    • Tighten your core muscles to stabilize your body throughout the movement.
    • Keep your back straight and avoid leaning forward or backward.
  4. Step 4Perform the Crunch
    • Pull the cable handle down towards your hip while bending your torso to the side, engaging your oblique muscles.
    • Focus on using your core to perform the movement rather than pulling with your arm.
  5. Step 5Return to Starting Position
    • Slowly return to the starting position by allowing the cable to pull you back up while maintaining control.
    • Keep your movements smooth and avoid using momentum.
  6. Step 6Repeat
    • Perform the desired number of repetitions on one side before switching to the other side.
    • Ensure that you maintain proper form throughout each repetition.
  7. Step 7Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your sets, carefully release the cable handle and stand up.
    • Make sure to maintain good posture as you finish the exercise.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025