Ab Crunches and Other Stomach Exercises
Abdominal crunches are used to tone or strengthen the mid section of ones body. These exercises will help get rid of any extra fat around the belly. The stomach is considered to be the core of the body. When strengthening this area of the body, you will also be giving your body better foundation. Your back will greatly benefit from the exercises that you do, because strengthening your stomach muscles will help create support and allow better posture in your back.
Abdominal Crunches
There are three different kinds of crunches that you can do that will benefit your body. There is the standard crunch, the advanced crunches and the reverse crunch. These will both work the mid section you; they are just done a bit differently. The advanced can be slightly more difficult than the regular crunches that everyone knows.
The regular crunches, that are the standard for most, are done by lying flat on the floor. You will place your arms across your chest and bring your knees to a bent position. Bring the elbows to your knees then slowly return to the beginning position. This is a completed crunch. To make it more difficult it is recommend holding the position for one to two seconds before returning to the beginning position.
The advanced crunches are done by lying flat on your back and holding your legs straight up in air. Cross your arms over your chest and bring your elbows to your knees. This exercise is not recommended for people who have severe back problems. This exercise is a little more difficult to perform. Again to add more difficult, try holding the position for one or two seconds before returning to the beginning position.
Reverse Crunches
The reverse crunches are not as well known as the other two crunches. This exercise begins in the same position as the regular crunches. You simply lift your buttocks and hips towards your elbows. You will leave your head and shoulders flat on the ground. Only lift your knees, buttocks, and hips. This is also not recommended if you have severe back problems.
Other Abdominal Exercises
The hip rollers are also a good way to strengthen your abs. Roll your hips from side to side with feet lifted up off the floor. Your head and shoulders should remain flat on the floor the whole time. Repeat this several times. This is good for people who can not do crunches very well.
