Breathing
Exhale through the abdominal effort and inhale during the controlled return. Keep the neck relaxed and do not hold your breath.
Getting your next view ready…
The Jackknife Sit-Up primarily works the abdominals. It is a strength movement that needs no equipment.

1 / 2How to
Movement instructions
Lie flat on the floor (or exercise mat) on your back with your arms extended straight back behind your head and your legs extended also. This will be your starting position.
As you exhale, bend at the waist while simultaneously raising your legs and arms to meet in a jackknife position. Tip: The legs should be extended and lifted at approximately a 35-45 degree angle from the floor and the arms should be extended and parallel to your legs. The upper torso should be off the floor.
While inhaling, lower your arms and legs back to the starting position.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Technique guidance
Exhale through the abdominal effort and inhale during the controlled return. Keep the neck relaxed and do not hold your breath.
General guidance based on the exercise and equipment. It is not personal coaching or medical advice.
Your progress
Keep the same exercise variation, range of motion and recording method when comparing Jackknife Sit-Up sessions.
Repetitions and completed sets.
Example: 10, 9 and 8 completed reps. Keep each set separate instead of recording only the total.
Compare repetitions using the same variation and range. A different variation needs its own history; extra reps are not directly comparable if the movement changes.
Read the tracking guideThe examples show how to keep a record. They are not workout targets or a personalised training plan.
See how Jijibisha tracks your progressMuscles
Muscle guide
Abdominals is the primary muscle group. The lighter highlights show the supporting muscles involved in the movement.
Swap it
Different equipment, same muscle
These movements also target the abdominals using something else.
Related
Related movements
Get the app
Add it to a routine, record every completed set, and keep the workout saved on your phone even when the gym has no reception.