Jackknife Sit-Up

Jackknife Sit-Up — Start position
Start position
Jackknife Sit-Up — End position
End position
Region
Lumbar & Core
Equipment
Body Only
Category
Strength
Level
Beginner
Mechanic
compound
Force
pull

Muscles worked

  • abdominals

Filled = primary · Outlined = secondary

Source: Free Exercise DB (public domain)

How to perform

  1. Lie flat on the floor (or exercise mat) on your back with your arms extended straight back behind your head and your legs extended also. This will be your starting position.

  2. As you exhale, bend at the waist while simultaneously raising your legs and arms to meet in a jackknife position. Tip: The legs should be extended and lifted at approximately a 35-45 degree angle from the floor and the arms should be extended and parallel to your legs. The upper torso should be off the floor.

  3. While inhaling, lower your arms and legs back to the starting position.

  4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

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