Aqua Side Crunches with Pool Noodle
Introduction
Twisting crunches on land can hurt your back and neck, whic is why doing them in the water is so much better. When you’re in the pool, the buoyancy helps you move with ease. You can twist on both sides while moving your legs at the same time, which is way tougher to pull off on land. But that doesn't mean the movement is too easy to be a good workout. While water cussions your weight, it also slows you down and adds enough challenge to your movement. This combo keeps you steady without any awkward jerking or straining, all while giving your muscles an excellent workout.
Sounds interesting? Grab your noodle and let's get started
Unlike side crunches (or twist crunches) on land, the aqua version adds knee tucks to maximize the benefits. While twisting alone is already a great workout for your obliques, tucking your knees engages your muscles even more, helping you squeeze and get the most out of each rep.
How to Perform
- Lay on your back and rest your hands on the noodle.
- Twist your whole body to one side, and bring your knees and chest together.
- Go back to the first position on your back.
- Repeat on the other side.
- Breathe in while laying on your back and exhale as you crunch to each side.
- Your abs and obliques should fire with each side crunch.
Mistakes to avoid:
Do not twist your lower half only and always move your whole body to avoid injuries.
Do not use your arms to force your body up in the crunching phase; let your abs and obliques do the work.
Focus the effort on the side when you twist and crunch, then return to the starting position without forcing the movement.
Check Out More Related Exercises
Copyright ©Aqua-Exercises.com 2014 all rights reserved