Do
Crunches for Six-Pack Abs
Crunches
are arguably the most popular exercise for strengthening
and toning the abdominal muscles. To get the results
you want, however, it is absolutely critical that
you use proper form. Here are the basics:
>>
Keep your lower back pressed firmly against the
floor throughout the entire exercise.
>>
Keep your neck and head in a neutral position. Do
not bend your neck forward as you crunch upward.
To help keep your neck stable, imagine you're gripping
a grapefruit between your chin and upper chest.
>>
If you clasp your hands behind your head, don't
move your elbows inward as you crunch. (Note: If
you're a beginner, you may find it easier to keep
your arms straight at your sides or folded across
your chest.)
>>
Focus on tightening the top section of your abdominal
muscles to perform the crunch. Aim to lift your
shoulder blades off the floor; you're not looking
for a big, dramatic motion.
>>
To tone your abdominal muscles, it's important to
do crunches or other ab-targeting exercises several
times a week. On your days off from ab-training,
you can still condition those muscles. simply by
contracting your abs during any workout, be it walking,
running, playing a sport, or even strength-training
other (non-abdominal) muscle groups.
>>
You will improve the abs' strength and control.
Additional benefits include: improved posture and
reduced risk of muscle strain in the back, neck
and knees.
Please visit our website often for more training
tips and everything you need to “SCULPT
YOUR MASTERPIECE.”™
"A healthy body,
mind, and soul... that is all we ask of you"
