Standing Alternating Toe Touches

Standing Alternating Toe Touches is a dynamic standing abs exercise targeting lower abs and obliques. The exercise may also be known as Kick Crunches or Opposite Foot to Opposite Hand Crunch.

This is a more functional variation than the regular Alternating Toe Touches done on the floor. That’s because while you’re on your feet you work more muscles and burn more calories than you would simply lying on the mat.

Dancers, fighters, athletes of different sports and everyone else looking for functionally strong core will benefit from Standing Alternating Toe Touches. It will help to improve the postural support, balance and stability. Great choice for those who are looking to lose weight and add an intensity to their workouts.

STANDING ALTERNATING TOE TOUCHES VIDEO DEMONSTRATION

BENEFITS:

• No strain on the neck and lower back.
• Burns more calories than other ab exercises done on the floor.
• No equipment needed. You can do it anytime, anywhere.
• Improves postural support, balance, and stability.
• Supports the development of strong and functional core.
• Trains shoulders.

HOW TO DO STANDING ALTERNATING TOE TOUCHES:

Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart or closer. Raise your arms to the side at a level of the shoulders. Engage the abs. This will be the starting and the middle position.

To begin the exercise lift the right leg up as high as possible without leaning backwards. Simultaneously rotate your upper body to your right side while trying to touch the toe with your left hand. Exhale during this part of the movement.

In a controlled motion return back to the starting position. Inhale on the way back.

Now do the same on the other side. Keep alternating sides until you reach a desired number of repetitions or until your abs fatigue and you no longer can sustain a good form.

TIPS:

• To work more abs, avoid creating a momentum. Perform controlled movements without swinging back and forth.
• Perform the exercise slower to improve more your balance and stability. Make quick moves for a higher intensity and more fat burn.
• Depending on your mobility and length of the legs, touching the toe isn’t mandatory. Trying hard to do so is enough.
• Use ankle weights and/or dumbbells to increase the difficulty of the exercise.