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Last updated March 2, 2026
Abs
Decline Sit-Up (Dumbbell)
Hook feet into a decline bench holding a dumbbell at your chest. Sit up fully. The decline angle increases the resistance significantly.
Quick facts
- Level
- Advanced
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Pull
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Moderate
- Hypertrophy
- Medium
- Calorie Burn
- Medium-High
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
Abs
Secondary
Hip Flexors
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
DumbbellAdjustable Bench
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Lying
Tracking parameters
repsweight
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Find a decline bench and adjust it to a comfortable angle.
- Sit on the bench with your legs secured under the footpads and your back against the bench.
- Step 2Grab the Dumbbell
- Hold a dumbbell with both hands, keeping it close to your chest.
- Ensure your grip is secure and your elbows are bent.
- Step 3Position Your Body
- Lie back on the bench, ensuring your lower back is pressed against it.
- Keep your feet firmly planted and your core engaged.
- Step 4Start the Sit-Up
- Exhale and engage your core as you lift your upper body towards your knees.
- Keep the dumbbell close to your chest throughout the movement.
- Step 5Reach the Top
- Continue to lift until your torso is upright or at a comfortable angle.
- Avoid pulling on your neck; focus on using your abdominal muscles.
- Step 6Lower Your Body
- Inhale as you slowly lower your upper body back down to the starting position.
- Maintain control and keep your core engaged throughout the descent.
- Step 7Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions, ensuring proper form with each sit-up.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully place the dumbbell down on the floor.
- Sit up fully and safely exit the bench.
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