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Last updated February 2, 2026
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abs
Seated Full Crunch (Machine)
This machine moves both the upper body and knees. Crunch everything together in the middle like an accordion. Squeeze hard.
Quick facts
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Mechanic
- Isolation
- Force
- Pull
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- Low
- Calorie Burn
- Low-Medium
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
abs
Secondary
deep abs / core
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
weight machines / selectorized
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Seated
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 machine so that your knees are aligned with the pivot point of the machine.
- Sit down on the machine and place your feet flat on the footrests, ensuring your back is against the padded support.
- Step 2Adjust the Resistance
- Select an appropriate weight on the machine that allows you to perform the exercise with good form.
- Make sure the weight is securely set before starting your repetitions.
- Step 3Position Your Body
- Grab the handles or the padded bar with both hands, keeping your elbows bent.
- Engage your core and ensure your back remains pressed against the backrest throughout the exercise.
- Step 4Perform the Crunch
- Exhale as you pull the handles or bar down towards your chest, curling your upper body forward.
- Focus on using your abdominal muscles to perform the movement, rather than relying on your arms.
- Step 5Return to Starting Position
- Inhale as you slowly return to the starting position, allowing your upper body to extend back while maintaining control.
- Ensure that your back remains in contact with the backrest during the return.
- Step 6Repeat
- Continue to perform the crunch for the desired number of repetitions, maintaining proper form throughout each rep.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully release the handles and sit upright.
- Make sure to adjust the machine back to its original settings if necessary.