Crunch

Starting Position 1. Lie down on a yoga mat. 2. Bend your knees at about 90 degrees and keep your feet flat on the floor. 3. Place your hands lightly behind your head or cross them over your chest. (Be careful not to pull your head.) 4. Keep your lower back on the floor and your gaze toward the ceiling. During Exercise 1. Engage your core and curl your upper body up just enough to lift your shoulders and shoulder blades slightly off the floor. 2. Do not let your lower back lift; raising your torso about 30–40 degrees is enough. 3. Feel the contraction in your abs, then slowly return to the starting position. 4. Do not use your neck or arms; move only with your abdominal muscles. Breathing 1. Exhale as you lift your upper body. 2. Inhale as you lower it back down.