Rope cable crunch10/31/2023 Granted I have a somewhat limited experience with ab machines (I don’t believe any college weight room I’ve worked in has ever had one), but I’ve used my fair share in commercial gyms over the years. Now, maybe it’s just me, but I’ve run across some ab crunch machines that are needlessly complicated and often extremely uncomfortable to use. Grab a rope attachment, kneel down in front of the machine and crunch. Cable Crunches are going to look and work the same regardless of the cable machine. Here’s why I give Cable Crunches the edge. RELATED –> Don’t have access to an ab crunch machine? Here are 14 Ab Machine Crunch alternatives to challenge your core. However, the overall concept doesn’t tend to change. I say generally because it can possibly vary a bit as ab machines themselves can vary depending on the manufacturer. Better For Developing Core Strength: Toss UpĬable Crunches and Ab Machine Crunches are so similar in their design and movement pattern that there really is no discernable difference between them when it comes to improving core strength.īoth exercises generally involve holding on to a form of resistance from above the shoulders and then crunching down towards the floor, pulling away from the resistance. Now, let’s compare to the two exercises side-by-side and discuss whether one is better than the other for some common lifting goals. By strengthening your abs, you may be able to reduce or prevent back pain. Reduced back pain: Weak abs can contribute to back pain, as they are unable to support the spine properly. Improved core stability: Strong abs can help to improve your overall stability, which can be beneficial for activities such as lifting weights, running, or playing sports. Ab Machine Crunches adds weighted resistance to your core training which is an important aspect of developing ab strength. Improved core strength: Oftentimes, athletes (and recreational lifters) can get into a routine of only doing bodyweight style abs like crunches and situps. There are several benefits to doing Ab Machine Crunches: If the resistance is too easy or too hard, simply adjust the weight on the machine accordingly. ![]() Also, make sure to keep your core engaged throughout the exercise.Īvoid pulling on the handles too hard, as this can strain your neck and shoulders. Keep your movements slow and controlled, rather than jerky. Slowly lower your upper body back down to the starting position.Engage your core and lift your upper body off the pads, bringing your elbows towards your knees.Sit on the machine and grip the handles.Make sure the pads are positioned comfortably on your upper back and the handles are within reach. Note: This may vary slightly from one ab machine to another as not all ab machines are built exactly the same. However, for many movements using a plate or a dumbbell makes the movement itself harder to do, not just because of the weight, but because holding a large implement can be cumbersome.Ĭable Crunches allow for weight to easily be changed and you can go as heavy as the machine (or your strength) will allow without compromising the integrity of the movement. Weighted variations are typically done with a weight plate or maybe a dumbbell. And, the ability to use a considerable amount of weight with it being a logistical nightmare.įor example, many (if not most) core exercises are done with bodyweight only. The main benefit specifically for Cable Crunches is having the ability to easily change the weight being used for an abdominal exercise. (You could also try one of these Cable Crunch alternatives) Benefits Simply loop a resistance band around the top of the squat rack and do the exact same movement with the band. ![]() ![]() Pro Tip: If you don’t have a cable machine, you can do the exact same exercise with a resistance band. The time under tension over the course of the set will accumulate and you’ll really notice the burn towards the tail end of the set. Instead, keep tension on the core throughout the movement and focus on the contraction of each rep. You don’t need to go super heavy with Cable Crunches. I would suggest trying both and seeing which you like better. *The two most popular attachment to use for Cable Crunches is the rope and the long straight bar. Slowly return back to the starting position and repeat.Then, crunch down, taking your shoulders down towards your thighs.Start with the torso completely upright. ![]()
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