Half Curl

Though its name might not exactly suggest it, the Half Curl is an abdominal exercise that it is not at all unlike a basic crunch routine. In fact, the Half Curl is a variation of the crunch that may make the more traditional workout a bit more difficult. People who wish to flatten stomach muscles and make them stronger may be interested in learning how to perform a Half Curl.

Individuals begin by lying on flat on their backs. Then they bend their knees to put their feet flat on the floor. Instead of placing their hands behind their heads, which may result in the temptation to pull on the head and cause strain to the neck, people who do the Half Curl then place their palms on their thighs. Leaning forward and contracting the abdominal muscles in a motion similar to a normal crunch, the participants only go as far as it takes to bring their palms to their knees. Then they slowly lower their bodies to the original position, making sure to keep their necks straight and chins up. Breathing out as one curls up is also important. The Half Curl is a relatively simple exercise that can help individuals flatten stomach muscles and promote toning and trimming.