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Post by biglat on Jun 4, 2009 19:21:43 GMT -5
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Post by biglat on Jun 8, 2009 22:41:59 GMT -5
Sit-Ups Are Bad For Your
Back
Updated: Friday, 05 Jun 2009, 8:28 PM EDT
Published : Friday, 05 Jun 2009, 7:01 PM EDT
By LILY FU
(MYFOX NATIONAL) - Want flat abs this summer? Doctors say crunches aren't the best way to get that washboard stomach. In fact they might be hurting you.
When you do a sit-up, you are actually straining your back at the weakest point, according to a story in Newsweek . This part on your back is where there are the most nerves, which could cause you the most harm.
"There are only so many bends or a 'fatigue life,' in your spinal disks," Stuart M. McGill, a professor of spine biomechanics at the University of Waterloo, told Newsweek. Inside each disk is a mucus-like nucleus, he says, and "if you keep flexing your spine and bending the disk over and over again, that nucleus slowly breaches the layers and causes a disk bulge, or a disk herniation."
And when people do sit-ups, it isn't just a few. It's literally dozens, or hundreds, which over time can cause someone so much pain that it hurts to bend over to pick something up.
Trainers agree that the best way to achieve those flat abs is to concentrate on strengthening the core instead because it will promote good back health and general athleticism. Some of the exercises you can try:
• Pushups: Not only does it tone up your arms, but it also forces your core muscles to stabilize. "It challenges abdominals, front of your legs, your arms and your back. That is how you use those muscles in real life," said Dr. McGill.
• Leg drops: Lie on your back and slide your hands under your lower spine for added support. Raise your legs to a 90-degree angle and then drop them just short of the ground. This exercise not only targets your core, but it also works your legs, arms and back.
• Bridge: Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet on the ground. Then raise your hips off the floor until your hips are aligned with your knees and shoulders. Keep your back in a neutral position. Hold for three deep breaths, then return to the start position and repeat.
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