Ab exercises: choose by purpose.

Train trunk flexion, anti-extension and bracing with loadable exercises. Compare practical options and choose movements by purpose, equipment and progression.

DIRECT ANSWER

Ab exercises are movements used to train trunk flexion, anti-extension and bracing with loadable exercises. Exercise choice should fit the athlete, equipment and weekly programme rather than a universal ranking.

What belongs in this group

Train trunk flexion, anti-extension and bracing with loadable exercises.

Common options

These examples cover distinct setups rather than a ranked list.

  • Cable crunch
  • Hanging knee raise
  • Ab wheel rollout
  • Machine crunch

How to choose

Choose a movement whose range and load can progress, then keep the pelvis and trunk action aligned with the intended exercise.

Keep the chosen movement stable long enough to compare performance, unless pain, equipment or programme fit requires a change.

Catalogue quality

Bulk Coach's exercise catalogue contains names, instructions, muscles, equipment, movement patterns and substitutions. Individual exercise URLs remain outside the sitemap until their instructions and added programming guidance receive a recorded founder review.

Sources and further reading

  1. Free Exercise DB public-domain source
Updated 7 August 2026Reviewed by James Wood, founder