Traditional sit-ups emphasize sitting up rather than merely
pulling your sternum down to meet your pelvis. The psoas
muscles run from the lower back to the front of the thighs.
This muscle action is to pull the thighs closer to the torso.
This action is the major component of sitting up. Because
of this, when you are doing sit ups your psoas muscles are
the primary muscles being engaged and not your abdominal
exercises.
So, sit-ups are a pretty useless exercise if you want
to get your abs in shape. Instead, use crunches, because they
directly work your abs.
The Right Way
Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and your feet
together flat on the floor and about 10-15 inches from your
buttocks. Your hands should either be crossed on your chest,
by your side, or cupped behind your ears.
Without moving your
lower body, curl your upper torso up and in toward your knees,
until your shoulder blades are as high off the ground as you can
get them. Only your shoulder blades should lift--not your back.
As you come to the highest point tighten and flex your abdominals
for a brief second. Slowly lower yourself back to the starting
position. Repeat for reps.
Diet
Remember cruches only tone the ab muscles, you need a
lowered calorie intake to burn off the fat, so the muscles then
show through clearly.
About The Author
Paul Becker is a natural (steroid free for life) bodybuilder and fitness
consultant. He is the author of many books and courses on training
and diet, the most popular of which is his book "Truly Huge". For more
information on his books, courses & personalized training
visit his website at http://www.trulyhuge.com.
As always, if you have any questions or comments feel free to E-Mail me.
muscle@relaypoint.net
http://www.trulyhuge.com
Copyright © 1997 Paul Becker. All Rights Reserved.
Best,
muscle@relaypoint.net
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