Problem with situps

[CraigAB]

Hi,

I don't seem to be able to do un-aided situps. By unaided I mean that my feet are not held or stuck under anything. My Feet must stay flat on the ground with knees bent at 90 degrees.

I get to about half way and stop, there appears to be a dead spot where there is no strength.

I can do a lot of situps if my feet are held etc.
So there must be a weak muscle group.

Any ideas??

Regards,
Craig

 

[malkore]

try crunches adn reverse crunches instead. sit-ups are kind of a crappy ab exercise...but great for hip flexors.

 

[dswithers]

try crunches adn reverse crunches instead. sit-ups are kind of a crappy ab exercise...but great for hip flexors.

Hip Flexors need exercise TOO!

One recent theory is that the main function of the abs is stabalization, NOT movement, therefore the fact that abs do very little movement, but a lot of stabalization, during a situp might mean that the situp is a very effective exercise for the abs, along with squats and deadlifts.

Another study I recall said that V-ups or bicycles (situps without the feet anchored) were the most effective exercises for the abs, based on measurements of muscle stimulation. Try them and see how they work for you.

 

[jrx]

You joining the Army?

It sounds like your "lower" abs are weak. Try doing reverse crunches, floor wipers, and planks.

 

[summer123]

I'd agree- the 'dead' spot sounds like a weakness and where the muscle needs to build up.

Make sure your doing your abs correctly though- its not how far or how fast you move but the quality of the movement and the correct posture. You could do small pumping movements at the top of your sit up but make sure your concerntrating on using your abs and not your neck. Once your neck starts to hurt stop: it hurts because your abs have had enough and have stopped working so all the strain is going towards the neck and hip flexors.

Also do things like the plank, side plank and yoga and pilataes movements to train your transverse abs, these are just as important and your ab muscles and make a big impact on how your abs develop.