The reverse crunch is a simple core exercise that targets those hard-to-hit lower abs — without straining your neck and back.

Neck pain is a common problem when people do abdominal crunches. Although crunches seem easy, research suggests that crunches can increase the risk of low-back pain when they’re not performed ...

“When holding a plank, the work is constant,” says Emma. “In a crunch, you give the abdominal muscles a slight respite as you reach the floor, but in the plank you are just holding continuously.

Crunches are a great way to work your abdominal muscles, but if you just can’t get on board with them – because, let’s be honest, they’re not the easiest exercise or that fun – there are ...