How many crunches does it take to lose a pound?

Crunches and other anaerobic exercises do not have a significant effect on weight loss. A person would have to perform crunches for about 12 hours straight in order to lose a single pound. Aerobic exercises such as running, swimming or cycling are much more efficient ways to losing weight.

Crunches are good exercises for toning muscle and building core strength. Developed core muscles often make the torso look slimmer without weight loss, and a strong core makes it easier to perform many of the aerobic workouts necessary to burn fat and shed pounds. For many people, the ideal exercise program blends aerobic and strength exercises.