why do i get back pains when i do sit ups?

Question

Every time i try 2 workout my abdominals i get back pains; am i doing them wrong? am i suppose 2 feel pressure in my back? any tips would help, thanx

Answer 1

You are doing them wrong. Please STOP doing them until you can find someone to show you how to do them properly. You don't want to hurt your back. You need to keep your back straight and bend at the waist. Sit-ups are too harsh on your back, you should do crunches instead.

http://www.ctnetworks.com/bodytech/abs.htm

http://sportsmedicine.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ&sdn=sportsmedicine&cdn=health&tm=71&gps=182_1507_783_342&f=10&su=p726.2.152.ip_p284.7.420.ip_&tt=2&bt=0&bts=0&zu=http%3A//www.acefitness.org/getfit/abstudy_top.aspx

Answer 2

No you should not feel pressure in the back unless you are doing a side crunch. If you are doing regular sit ups always keep your back pressed to the floor or the mat only lift your shoulders and head up.

Answer 3

You are probably hitting the floor too hard. You are not supposed to feel pressure in your back. If you cross your arms on your chest and lift yourself to your elbows, you will feel less pressure. You don't have to go up as far and it will work your abdomen as well.