Are sit-ups bad for your back?

Question

I've been doing sit-ups for my primary abdominal workout. However, I've been hearing that sit-ups are bad for your back. Does anyone know if this is true? If so, can you name another exercise to do instead? I could only think of crunches, but they don't see to work the abs nearly as much as sit-ups.

Answer 1

Crunches are the answer. Sit ups don't work your abs more, they are just harder. They work your hip flexors (iliopsoas if you want to be technical) where crunches don't. Sit-ups do put a lot of unnecessary stress on your back and neck. Make it easier on yourself, do crunches. You may have to do more of them, or add a medicine ball, but your spine will thank you.

Look up some core exercises online, planks work your abdominals, as well as some swiss ball workouts.

Answer 2

When exercising, you do need to work other muscles. Like opposing muscles. So do exercises to strengthen your back too. An easy one is to lay on your stomach, put arms straight out in front of you. stretch legs out, bend back. (reach up with arms, reach up with legs) Does that make sense? Do this for about a songs length, try to do this after working your abs always. Good Luck!

Answer 3

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Answer 4

No. I've been having back problems and my physical therapist specifically told me to do sit-ups. The key is moderation.

Answer 5

i have heard they can hurt your back as your back is not meant to curve like that and because of so the idea of curl ups is made