Sit-Ups?

[ninicat]

Okay Lazyweb, I've got an exercise question for you

Comments

[cloudscudding]

Full-body pushups are great for the stomach (and back!)...crunchus, side-to-side sit-ups (elbows touching opposite knees), incline sit-ups if you can, twisting from side to side while holding weights....

[chesh]

I vote for planks! Definitely a good way to measure progress, and they can be meditative in that while you're trying to hold the position, it's hard to get lost in your own headspace (because damn, difficult!)

You may also want to try supermen or swimming to make sure your back muscles are also getting strong to keep up with your abs. They're both the same idea - while either on hands and knees in a table position or lying on your stomach, lift right arm and left leg to slightly above horizontal and hold for some period of time (anywhere from a 1-count to a 5-count), then switch and repeat.

[whatis42]

Seconded! Planks might also be less likely to lead to back injuries for over-exercising, and they can be done on all 4 sides.

To work out your back muscles with a plank, just put your feet on a couch (or exercise ball if you've got one, but that's not essential) and lift. You can then do leg lifts while holding that position, to increase difficulty and work out your legs. I learned that one in physical therapy. :)

[nemoren]

Thirded on planks and the danger of back injury with sit-ups. And they're plenty challenging on the ol' core muscles, which I never actually found crunches to be.

[rphaedrus]

Running is a good overall and cardio fitness and will help with bone density. I really liked the 13 week run walk program: http://amzn.to/9GuwUe... )

[fayde]

I like to add the "dyiing bug" it is a pilaties move.

[green_truth]

Lunges are a great leg workout, but they also work your core. I have also found that biking works out those key pants-fit areas, the outer thigh and the belly. If you are conscious about it, it can be far more of a core workout, but I usually just ride, rather than focus enough to make it that. Everyone else has had great suggestions.