Sit ups and backache?

Question

When i sit up, my back muscles seem working more than my abdominal muscles. Is there something i do wrong? Help.

Answer 1

ABS are small muscles and fatigue easily. Once your stomach muscles fatigue your back muscles start trying to do the job on their own.. that's what causes the back pain. Once you feel your abs cramping up, stop and rest for one minute... and start again.

It's probably better to do crunches.... anyway.. here is a list of abs exercises .. when you get fatigued from one.. switch to another type.. e.g. obliques... or back extensions.... then come back to abs... http://www.exrx.net/Lists/ExList/WaistWt...

Answer 2

when doing situps, lay flat back on the ground. raise your knees so they point straight up, feet flat on the floor. with open palms, rest your fingers only on the back of your head.  when you do a situps, don't use your arms to pull you upwards, this is what causes back and neck pains.  while laying on your back, just flex your stomach. you'll notice you will have a natural motion to curl up with it. there is no need to push all the way to your knees, just 6-8 inches off the ground is sufficient enough. good luck