Exercising the abdomen to achieve tight, firm abs is difficult for many individuals, especially those who have not worked out for some time. Traditional sit-ups are often very difficult for such individuals to perform, and risks for back or neck injury prevent many from even attempting them. The Cross Crunch is a popular exercise tool advertised on television and in magazines that promotes a side crunch move that works not only the front of the abdomen, but the sides (obliques) as well. The Cross Crunch can be used by a person sitting upright, reducing the chance of injury to neck or spine.
Step 1
Adjust the resistance or tension on the Cross Crunch by first sliding up the plastic cover found on the front of the ab trainer and inserting weights included in the package to your desired level. The weights offer up to 75 pounds of resistance, according to the Cross Crunch website. Slide the plastic cover back into place.
Step 2
Position yourself on a sturdy chair or surface and place the base of the Cross Crunch on the chair directly beside the hip. Place both hands on each of the handles provided on the exercise trainer. You should be facing forward.
Step 3
Lean forward, tucking in abdominals and breathing out, press the body forward and to the side while at the same time pressing downward on the handles. As you tilt to one side, keep the head in line with the spine. Users should feel the ab muscles tightening on the side they are leaning into. Perform the move slowly and smoothly and then return to an upright position. Repeat the move at least 12 times, according to the instructions that come with the Cross Crunch.
Step 4
Change the position of the Cross Crunch, now placing the exerciser on the chair or surface beside the opposite hip. Repeat the crunches from this position. The Cross Crunch states that an individual can perform 12 crunches to the left and then 12 crunches on the right after repositioning the tool, but try to do more if you can for optimal results.
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