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Dumbbell V Sit

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Intermediate
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Core exercise performed holding a dumbbell in a V-shaped position that targets the abs and hip flexors to build isometric strength and stability.

About Exercise

Equipment

Dumbbells

Difficulty

4/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Abs, Hip Flexors

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Strength
Endurance
Stability

Training Style

Calisthenics
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Abs

10/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Hip Flexors

9/10

Iliopsoas

Obliques

7/10

External Obliques, Internal Obliques

Shoulders

4/10

Anterior Delts

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-120 seconds

How to Perform

Sit on the floor with knees bent and feet flat, holding a dumbbell at your chest or extended forward with both hands.

  1. Lean back slightly while engaging the core to maintain a straight spine.
  2. Lift feet off the floor and extend legs to form a V shape with the torso.
  3. Balance on the glutes, keeping the chest up and shoulders down.
  4. Hold the position statically or perform small controlled pulses.
  5. Lower legs and torso back to the start position with control.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Chest up
  • Spine neutral
  • Balance on glutes
  • Core tight
  • Legs straight

Breathing

Exhale as you lift into the V position, and breathe shallowly while bracing the core during the hold.

Tempo

2-0-2

Range of Motion

Torso and legs at approximately 45 degrees relative to the floor; maintain a neutral spine.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Stop if you feel sharp pain in the lower back
  • Ensure the dumbbell is gripped securely

Spotting

Not recommended; self-spot by bending knees or dropping weight if needed.

Common Mistakes

  • Rounding the lower back
  • Straining the neck
  • Holding breath
  • Using momentum

When to Avoid

  • Lower back injury
  • Herniated disc
  • Hip flexor strain

Flexibility Needed

  • Hip flexion to 90 degrees
  • Spinal flexion mobility

Build Up First

  • Basic plank hold
  • Core engagement competency

Also known as

Weighted V-Sit, Dumbbell V-Up Hold, Weighted Boat Pose

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