Decline Crunch vs Reverse Crunch
Which one fits your Core workout plan?
Contents
Reverse Crunch is the easier place to start — difficulty 2 of 5 vs 3. Compare Core form cues and when to progress.
Compare the benefits of Decline Crunch and Reverse Crunch and pick the one that fits your Core workout.
Decline Crunch vs Reverse Crunch: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Decline Crunch more often — 2,842 sessions compared to 1,477 for Reverse Crunch.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Decline Crunch and Reverse Crunch differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Decline Crunch and Reverse Crunch Differ
| What differs | Decline Crunch | Reverse Crunch |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | 3 of 5 | 2 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 2,842 sessions | 1,477 sessions |
How to Do Decline Crunch
Decline Crunch Muscles Worked: Core
Form
- 1. Please lift your upper body while keeping your back straight.
- 2. Slowly return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. If you lift your upper body excessively, it can strain your lower back, so please lift your upper body without letting your back rise.
- 2. If your neck hurts, support your head with your hands and relax your neck while proceeding.
For a full Decline Crunch guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Decline Crunch exercise guide.
How to Do Reverse Crunch
Reverse Crunch Muscles Worked: Core
Form
- 1. Bend your knees so that they are perpendicular to the ground while lying on the floor.
- 2. Engage your abs as if your knees are touching your chest and lift your hips up.
- 3. Hold this position for about 1 second, then slowly return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- Be careful not to lift your lower back excessively off the floor, and focus on engaging your abdominal muscles.
For a full Reverse Crunch guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Reverse Crunch exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Core, Decline Crunch or Reverse Crunch?
Neither is clearly ahead — Planfit users log both at a similar rate. They both train Core, so the choice comes down to the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
What equipment do Decline Crunch and Reverse Crunch need?
Decline Crunch needs bodyweight only, and Reverse Crunch needs bodyweight only.
Which is easier to start with?
Reverse Crunch is the easier place to start. Move to Decline Crunch once your form holds up.
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