TETSUButt-Ups vs Otis Up
The Butt-Ups and the Otis Up both train the abs as their primary muscle. The Butt-Ups are bodyweight-only while the Otis Up adds external weight to a bodyweight pattern. Here is how they compare and when to pick each.
Side-by-side comparison
How each one starts
Butt-Ups — first steps
- Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground.
- Place your hands by your sides, palms facing down.
Otis Up — first steps
- Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground.
- Place your hands behind your head with your elbows pointing outwards.
Full step-by-step guides are linked below.
Which should you choose?
The Butt-Ups need no equipment and scale through leverage, tempo and reps. The Otis Up adds external load to a bodyweight pattern for direct overload. If your gym has both options, neither is a wrong choice: pick the one that feels strongest through a full range, and swap after 6 to 8 weeks to keep the abs adapting.
Full form guides
Common questions
Are the Butt-Ups better than the Otis Up?
Neither is universally better — both train the abs as the primary mover. The Butt-Ups need no equipment and scale through leverage, tempo and reps, while the Otis Up adds external load to a bodyweight pattern for direct overload. Choose based on your equipment and which movement you can progress consistently.
Can I do both the Butt-Ups and the Otis Up in the same program?
Yes, but usually not in the same session — they overlap heavily on the abs. A common setup is one as your main movement and the other on a second training day, or alternating them block by block.
Do the Butt-Ups and the Otis Up work the same muscles?
Yes — the primary muscle is the same (abs) and both rely on the same supporting muscles: hip flexors and lower back.
Track it in Tetsu
Tetsu tracks both movements separately, keeps your PRs per exercise, and tells you which one is actually progressing. Free to start.