# Vertical Leg Crunch

URL: https://heatsy.app/ex/vertical-leg-crunch

Also known as: Crunch with Legs Up, Legs-Up Crunch, Lying Toe Touch, Toe Touch Crunch, Toe Reach, Toe Touches

Body region: Core

## Muscles

- Main: Rectus Abdominis
- Helps: External Oblique, Internal Oblique
- Holds: Iliopsoas, Rectus Femoris

## Technique

1. Lie on your back and raise the legs straight up, knees soft, feet over the hips.
2. Place your hands lightly behind your head or reach them toward your feet.
3. Curl the shoulders off the floor, bringing the chest toward the knees.
4. Lower the shoulders slowly while keeping the legs still.

### Cues

- Keep the legs vertical; they should not swing.
- Breathe out as you curl up.
- Reaching the hands toward the toes instead of holding the head is the toe-touch version.

### Common mistakes

- Pulling the head forward with the hands.
- Rocking the legs to help the lift.

## Alternatives

- [Crunch](https://heatsy.app/ex/crunch)
- [Hanging Leg Raise](https://heatsy.app/ex/hanging-leg-raise)