sit-up bench ?

Question

What is the correct way of doing sit-up exercise on bench ?

I am asking this because i dont wanna hurt my body ( specially my back ) by doing it wrong.

This is the sit-up bench i just got :
http://i16.ebayimg.com/07/i/000/86/27/bec6_1_b.JPG

Answer 1

I would start with the bench on the lowest setting first of all(almost horizontal) because that is the easiest. Next, cross your arms over your chest. Most people put them behind their head, but this is wrong because you will instinctually pull up on your neck with your hands, and you pull something or injure your neck badly. When you are actually doing the sit-ups, remember to focus on tightening your abs and your core. You should feel your mid-section tighten as you are doing your sit-ups. If your legs are soar after doing these, then you are using too much of your legs, and not enough of your abs. Lastly, exhale on the way up for a count of 2, and inhale on the way down for a count of 4, or as close to a 2 and 4 count as you can. The key is to concentrate and focus. Go slow so you don't strain anything, and good luck!