Because of its ability to target the entire core, the Swiss-ball crunch should be a staple in your workout. The exercise primarily works the rectus abdominis, or six-pack muscles, and the transverse abdominis . But when performed properly, it also calls on muscles that stabilize the hips and lower back.
Read moreWhat can be substituted for crunches?
10 Better Alternatives to Crunches and Sit Ups
Read moreWhat can I use instead of an exercise ball?
For those who like to use a small workout ball during sweat sessions, Nolden says she uses a circular pillow that provides a similar result. Or, if you don’t have a pillow that works, roll up a towel and use that instead.
Read moreAre crunches on a ball better?
A study by researchers at the Department of Kinesiology at Occidental College in Los Angeles says yes. The study found that crunches performed on a stability ball (a.k.a. fitness ball or Balance Ball) boosted activation, or flexing, of abdominal muscles by 24 to 38 percent over crunches done without a ball .
Read moreWhat muscles does a crunch work?
Like situps, crunches help you build muscle. But unlike situps, they work only the abdominal muscles . This intense muscle isolation makes them a popular exercise for people trying to get six-pack abs. This also makes them ideal for strengthening your core, which includes your lower back muscles and obliques.
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