Ab rocker

An ab rocker is a floor-standing curved frame with a head support. You lie inside the frame, bend your knees and hold its handles while performing a short abdominal curl. The frame rocks with the movement.

An ab rocker isn’t the same as an ab wheel, which rolls away from your body during a rollout; select the apparatus that matches the exercise you intend to perform.

Fixed, folding and padded models

Basic ab rockers have a curved tubular frame, hand grips and a head pad. Other versions add a floor mat, arm padding or a folding mechanism. These features mostly change comfort and storage, so choose based on the space you have and how the frame fits you.

A folding model is handy if you put the equipment away after each session. Check whether it folds with a simple locking mechanism or needs parts removed. Compare the folded dimensions with the space available where you intend to store it, and make sure all joints are secure again before use.

Head support and grip position

If possible, lie in the frame before buying it. Your head should rest on the pad without you having to crane your neck to reach it. You should also be able to hold the grips comfortably while your shoulders and upper body follow the short curling movement.

Some head supports can be adjusted, while others are fixed. Pay attention to the available positions rather than assuming that extra padding solves a poor fit. Check that the pad doesn’t shift, that handles are secure and that the manufacturer’s user limits suit you.

Using the frame

The curved parts need a level surface on which they can rock evenly. A mat may make lying on the floor more comfortable, but a very soft or uneven base can interfere with the frame’s movement. Check the intended setup and allow room for your legs as well as the apparatus.

A rocker guides a short crunch and gives your head somewhere to rest. It doesn’t move your torso for you: pushing hard on the handles can turn the exercise into an arm-driven rocking motion. If all you want is to do ordinary crunches, you can also do them on a mat without this frame.

Working out with ab rocker

You can perform the following exercise with ab rocker.