V Sit Ups
V sit ups are a challenging bodyweight core exercise targeting the abs. The simultaneous leg and torso raise into a V shape maximizes contraction throughout the entire abdominal region and requires significant hip flexor strength.
How to do it
- Lie flat on your back with arms extended overhead and legs straight.
- Simultaneously raise your legs and torso toward each other, reaching your hands toward your feet.
- Meet in the V position at the top, balancing momentarily on your tailbone.
- Slowly lower both your legs and torso back to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Form cues
- Keep your arms straight and reach toward your feet.
- Raise your legs and upper body at the exact same time.
- Exhale sharply as you crunch upward into the V shape.
- Lower down with control without letting your lower back arch.
Breathing: Exhale as you lift your legs and torso into the V position. Inhale as you slowly lower back to the mat.
Common mistakes
- Using momentum by swinging arms to sit up, which reduces muscle engagement in the abs.
- Bending knees heavily to make the movement easier, which shifts focus away from the intended V shape.
- Holding your breath during the lift, which raises blood pressure and makes balancing harder.
Muscles worked
Primary: abs. Secondary: hip flexors, quads, obliques.
Suggested sets & reps
Get fitter
3 sets x 10-12 reps, rest 60 seconds
Lose weight
3 sets x 10-15 reps, rest 45 seconds
Build muscle
3 sets x 8-12 reps, rest 60 seconds
Easier, harder & alternatives
Take care if…
- If you feel sharp lower back pain, ease off and choose a gentler core exercise.
- If you have ongoing hip or back discomfort, check with a professional before adding this to your routine.
General educational guidance, not medical advice. Stop on sharp pain and check with a qualified professional if unsure.
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Start free →Frequently asked questions
Why do I feel this exercise in my lower back?
Feeling it in your lower back usually means your core fatigued and your pelvis tilted, losing support. Try a regression like bent-knee v sit ups to protect your spine.
How many times a week should I do v sit ups?
2 to 3 times per week is plenty for most beginners, allowing your abdominal muscles enough time to recover between sessions.
Can I do v sit ups if I am a complete beginner?
They are quite challenging. If you find them too difficult, start with half sit ups or bent knee variations before progressing to the full v sit up.