Abs exercise: Bicycle crunches work on both abs and obliques
Highlights
- Crunches are an effective exercise that work on the abdominal muscles
- Side crunches can help you work on several muscles
- Do not place your hands behind your head while doing crunches
A crunch is a classic core exercise that especially works on your abdominal muscles. It helps in toning your muscles around the abs, pelvis, back and sides of the trunk. Many perform this exercise on day to day basis. To make it more interesting, different variations of the crunch are usually practised. One of the variations is bicycle crunches. This form works on both abs and obliques. It also helps in toning the thighs and side abdominal muscles. Some might make a few mistakes while performing this exercise that can not only affect the results but may lead to strain or injuries too. Recently, fitness expert Kayla Itsines took to Instagram and shared a video to elaborate common mistakes you should be avoiding while performing ab bikes.
How to do ab bikes correctly? Here are some common mistakes you should avoid
The caption of the video reads, "This is an easy one to get wrong. So, if you do Ab Bikes often, I want you to take the time to learn how to get them right!"
Some do's and don'ts she listed are-
Do's
- Rest hands in front of ears
- Rotate at the torso
- Bring knees in close to the chest
- Extend your legs in a push and pull motion
- Elevate your shoulders
Don'ts
- Pull your neck up with your hands behind your head
- Do small in and out motions with your legs
- Curve your back away from the floor
Also read: Weight Loss: Work A Little Extra On Your Abs With This Challenging No-Equipment Workout
The fitness expert explains-
1. Do not use your hands to push your upper body-
Usually, people keep their hands behind their neck and bring their knees close to the elbows. Pulling your neck this way can lead to tension in the neck. So, keep your hands in front of your ears.
2. Pull the other leg-
Many also keep both the legs in the same position through the exercise. While bringing your one knee closer to the upper body, extend the other leg and push it.
Also read: Weight Loss: 5 Hardest Abs Exercises According To Fitness Trainer Kayla Itsines
Watch the video here:
Also read: Belly Fat: Kayla Itsines Reveals Her Favourite Abs Exercises- Try Them Now!
Avoid these mistakes and ace the bicycle crunch!
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.