INSTRUCTIONS: The movement is a bent knee-to-chest abdominal curl. Hold a dumbbell in each hand, bring chin toward chest, bend knees and curl up. Move slowly while maintaining a stable torso.

DUMBBELL SIZE: Start with smaller dumbbells. As you get stronger, increase the weight in 1-2 lb. increments. Maintain quality of movement over quantity. Wrist weights are an alternative to dumbbells.

MODIFICATIONS: 1) Perform the exercise without weights. 2) Omit the weights, and cross your arms on your chest instead of lifting them. 3) Rest legs on a sturdy bench or chair with knees forming right angles.

CAUTION: Avoid adding on more weight than your shoulders can handle. Strive for slow, stable, and strong movement.

EXERCISE DOs and DONTs – As with all exercise programs, when using exercise videos that appear on this site, you need to use common sense. If your muscles are weak, either do the modifications, or don’t attempt this exercise if it’s too difficult for you. When starting an exercise program, be sure to discuss your plans with your healthcare provider