V-up
The V-up trains the entire core in a single, dynamic movement, making it one of the most efficient bodyweight ab exercises for a home workout.
Equipment
Bodyweight
Difficulty
beginner
Sets & reps
3 sets · 10-15 reps
Muscles worked
Abs, Hip flexors
A dynamic core exercise where the arms and legs meet in a V shape above the body, training the entire abdominal wall in one movement.
How to do it
- Lie flat on your back with your arms extended overhead and legs straight.
- Simultaneously raise your legs and upper body, reaching your hands toward your feet.
- Form a V shape with your body at the top, balancing on your glutes.
- Lower back down under control to the starting position.
- Keep your legs and arms as straight as possible throughout.
Coaching tips
- Bend your knees slightly if a full V-up is too difficult at first.
- Focus on curling through your abs rather than just swinging your limbs up.
- This is an advanced move — master crunches and leg raises first if you're new to core training.
Common mistakes
- Using momentum to fling the limbs up instead of controlled ab engagement.
- Only lifting partway instead of forming a full V shape.
Frequently asked questions
The V-up is too hard for me — what should I do instead?
Try a tuck-up (bending your knees toward your chest instead of keeping legs straight) to build strength before progressing to the full V-up.
Start tracking your workouts free
GymMonster is free on iOS and Android — or open it right inside Telegram, no download needed. Log your first set in under a minute.
