Exercise Comparison
Ab Crunch Machine vs Medicine Ball Full Twist
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in Medicine Ball Full Twist
Instructions
Ab Crunch Machine
Select a light resistance and sit down on the ab machine placing your feet under the pads provided and grabbing the top handles. Your arms should be bent at a 90 degree angle as you rest the triceps on the pads provided. This will be your starting position.
At the same time, begin to lift the legs up as you crunch your upper torso. Breathe out as you perform this movement. Tip: Be sure to use a slow and controlled motion. Concentrate on using your abs to move the weight while relaxing your legs and feet.
After a second pause, slowly return to the starting position as you breathe in.
Repeat the movement for the prescribed amount of repetitions.
Medicine Ball Full Twist
For this exercise you will need a medicine ball and a partner. Stand back to back with your partner, spaced 2-3 feet apart. This will be your starting position.
Hold the ball in front of the trunk. Open the hips and turn the shoulders at the same time as your partner.
For full rotation, you and your partner should twist in the same direction, i.e. counter-clockwise.
Pass the ball to your partner, and both of you can now twist in the opposite direction to repeat the procedure.
Verdict
Both exercises target the abdominals. Ab Crunch Machine is a intermediate exercise using machine, while Medicine Ball Full Twist is beginner and uses medicine ball. Choose Medicine Ball Full Twist if you're looking for a more accessible option, or Ab Crunch Machine for a greater challenge. Medicine Ball Full Twist is a compound movement working multiple joints, making it better for overall strength. Ab Crunch Machine isolates the target muscle for focused development.