04/28/2025
If you want to break the cycle of pain in your Achilles, knees, hamstrings, groin, low back, or core, this targeted drill is for you—whether you sit at a desk, run, or play sports.
Exercise: Bench One Foot Cross Crunch Position Back Lunge Leg Calf Raise
https://youtube.com/shorts/MnIKfMxBavY?feature=share
Why this exercise matters:
Prevents and rehabilitates pain and injuries in the Achilles tendon, knees, hamstrings, groin, low back, and core—key for anyone with imbalanced movement patterns from sitting, running, jumping, or quick direction changes.
Activates the body’s “sling system”: This drill links diagonal core, hip, and leg muscles, restoring proper force transfer for efficient running, walking, and athletic movements—not just landing hard on your joints.
Restores postural alignment: Re-teaches your foot to point straight, prevents over-arching your low back, and links proper big toe drive to pelvic position for better stride and power.
Relieves stress on overused areas (like the quads and knees), distributing work to the posterior chain and core.
How to do it:
Stand facing a bench. Place your right foot fully on the bench, knee bent at about 90 degrees.
Bend your torso forward and slightly across your body, bringing your left elbow toward your right knee—this creates a cross-crunch shape. Hold this shape throughout the set.
Your left leg (the one on the ground behind you) stays extended.
While holding the cross-crunch position, perform consecutive calf raises on your left (trailing) leg—lift your heel as high as possible, pressing through the big toe and ball of the foot.
Important: Make sure this foot is facing straight ahead, not turned out with the heel toward the center of your body. Avoiding this “external biased” footprint is critical—this common mistake is a root cause of the pain, inflammation, and injuries described above.
Focus on posture: the foot on the bench stays firmly planted, your body stays engaged in the cross-crunch, and your hips and shoulders remain square and controlled.
Complete all reps on one side, then switch legs and repeat.
Who benefits from this exercise:
Desk workers needing to undo sitting-related movement issues.
Runners, athletes, or anyone prone to lower body or core pain/injury.
Anyone wanting to strengthen foot-to-core connections, improve movement mechanics, and build lasting injury resilience.
Train with intention—train for life.
Generic programs won’t address modern movement challenges. Wellman Wellness Training offers progressive, function-first programs that solve real pain, inflammation, and injury issues.
Invest in a WWT program and finally address your needs for good movement and a pain-free future.
Contact us today to get the program that’s right for your movement goals.
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If you want to break the cycle of pain in your Achilles, knees, hamstrings, groin, low back, or core, this targeted drill is for you—whether you sit at a des...