Replacing the traditional abdominal crunch

Some research has shown that the traditional abdominal crunch can actually cause certain problems. This particular exercise provides a very isolated contraction of the abdominal muscles that is in no way geared towards the real world strength needs of our bodies. The crunch also shortens the rectus abdominis, which can result in a postural imbalance in some people that could actually leave your lower back open to injury.

A much better exercise to consider replacing the traditional ab crunch with is the Swiss ball crunch. Swiss balls are inexpensive and available at most sporting goods stores, as well as major retail chains like Target, Wal-Mart, Sears, KMart, etc., or online.

The Swiss ball crunch is completed as follows: Lie on the ball so that your back conforms to the shape of the ball. Hold the sides of your head very lightly (only for support), and then curl your spine such that your entire upper back comes up off the surface of the ball. In this position, pause and make sure that you can feel your abs contracting, pulling in towards the spine, and your lower back should be digging into the ball. Hold, inhale, then lower yourself back to the starting position.

Replacing your old floor crunches with Swiss ball crunches should make a significant difference in how you feel afterwards, particularly if you already have lower back problems or occasional back pains.

To your fitness,

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