Do you need cardio for crunches to be affective?

Question

My stomach is about 5 lbs away from being flat. I really want a flat shaped stomach, but my sister keeps telling me that the only way that crunches will help me would be if i did the elliptical machine along with them. Is that true?

Answer 1

yep...cardio cardio cardio.  

Answer 2

no i don't think u need to use a machine. i would try watching a few episodes of Total body workout w/ Gilad on Fit TV. if you really think you need the cardio you can get that and easy workouts on your abs through crunches and push ups with hes easy show. its really helping me out with my goal. the most convenient times his show come on are 10:30am every day and 6:30pm

Answer 3

you do need cardio to really get a flat stomach.  Running really worked for me the elliptical is good to but if you don''t like it i'd suggest finding something else that interests you.  Try walking/running on a treadmill or swimming laps.  It helps me stay motivated if i switch up what i do for cardio.  I run for a couple weeks until i get tired of it. Then ill switch to swimming laps or the elliptical.  Just find something you like!! Youll notice results if you stick to it.

Answer 4

Yes, that is true.  

Crunches build the muscle, but they don't get the heart rate up high enough to be able to burn the fat away!