Decline Sit-Up

Abs, ObliquesIncline Bench

Decline sit-ups strengthen the rectus abdominis and obliques, offering greater range of motion and resistance than floor crunches.

How to do it

1Secure your feet under the decline bench pads and lie flat on your back.

2Cross your arms over your chest or place fingertips by your temples without lacing fingers behind your head.

3Exhale, round your upper back slightly, and lift your torso by contracting your abs.

4Rise until your abs are fully engaged, stopping short of touching your thighs.

5Inhale and lower your back down with control until your shoulder blades lightly touch the bench.

Common mistakes

Pulling on your head with your hands, placing strain on your neck.

Jerking your body up with momentum and lower-back arching.

Overarching your lower back at the bottom of the movement.

Breathing

Exhale as you rise up into abdominal contraction, and inhale as you return to the start.

This is general guidance, not a medical opinion. Listen to your body: if it hurts, stop. If you have an injury or a chronic condition, talk to a doctor first.