Waist Exercise · Leverage Machine

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Lever Seated Leg Raise Crunch

Combining a leg raise with a crunch on this machine trains the lower abs and hip flexors through a longer range than either movement alone, since the hips flex while the torso also curls forward. The resistance lets you keep loading this pattern past what bodyweight leg raises can offer.

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Category

Waist

Equipment

Leverage Machine

Target

Abs

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Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.

How to Do the Lever Seated Leg Raise Crunch

1. Sit on the leverage machine with your back against the backrest and your feet on the footrests.
2. Grasp the handles or sidebars for stability.
3. Engage your abs and slowly raise your legs toward your chest, curling your torso forward at the same time.
4. Pause briefly at the top, then slowly lower your legs and torso back to the starting position.
5. Perform for your targeted rep count, focusing on a deliberate tempo and maximum tension in the abs.

Technique & Form Tips

Focus on trunk flexion, rotation, or anti-movement stability as required by your specific variation. Maintain the suggested pelvic and spinal orientation to keep tension focused on the abdominal area throughout each repetition or hold.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Pulling the neck: For crunch variations, avoid pulling the head forward with your hands; follow the demonstrated arm and head position.
• Lower back arching: Keep the spine controlled to prevent the lower back from hyperextending under the load.
• Excessive speed: Perform movements with deliberate control rather than relying on rapid, bouncing motions.

How to Breathe During This Exercise

Maintain a steady breathing rhythm during the effort.

Comfort and Control

Choose a load and range you can control. Stop if the movement causes pain. If discomfort persists, stop and ask a qualified professional about an appropriate exercise and range.

General guidance: Mayo Clinic on weight-training technique. Follow the specific movement steps above for this variation.

Muscles Worked

The Lever Seated Leg Raise Crunch mainly targets your Abs, with your Hip Flexors helping support the movement.

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Arms Overhead Full Sit-Up (male) Body Weight · Abs Assisted Hanging Knee Raise Assisted · Abs Assisted Hanging Knee Raise With Throw Down Assisted · Abs Assisted Lying Leg Raise With Lateral Throw Down Assisted · Abs Assisted Lying Leg Raise With Throw Down Assisted · Abs Assisted Motion Russian Twist Medicine Ball · Abs

Equipment Alternatives

Don't have leverage machine? These target the same abs with different equipment.

Arms Overhead Full Sit-Up (male) Body Weight · Abs Assisted Hanging Knee Raise Assisted · Abs Assisted Motion Russian Twist Medicine Ball · Abs Band Alternating V-Up Band · Abs

FAQ

What muscles does the Lever Seated Leg Raise Crunch work?

The Lever Seated Leg Raise Crunch mainly works your abs. Your hip flexors also works to help support and steady your body. Using good, smooth form makes sure you work the right muscles and avoid unnecessary strain on your joints.

What equipment do I need for the Lever Seated Leg Raise Crunch?

You do the Lever Seated Leg Raise Crunch with a leverage machine. Make sure your equipment is set up safely before starting. If you work out at home or have limited gear, check out our alternative exercises below.

What form mistake should I watch for on the Lever Seated Leg Raise Crunch?

One mistake to watch for is pulling the neck: For crunch variations, avoid pulling the head forward with your hands; follow the demonstrated arm and head position.. Use a comfortable range and a controlled return; reduce the load if you cannot maintain the demonstrated setup.

How many sets and reps should I perform on the Lever Seated Leg Raise Crunch?

To tone and grow muscle, do 3 to 4 sets of 10 to 15 smooth reps with 60 seconds of rest, focusing on a full stretch and squeezing the muscle at the top of each rep.

What's a good alternative to the Lever Seated Leg Raise Crunch?

The Arms Overhead Full Sit-Up (male) trains your abs with body weight and a similar movement pattern. Review its form guide before substituting it, since setup and range of motion can differ.