How to Do a Crunch Properly

Who doesn't want a tight and toned tummy? Well doing crunches along with aerobic exercise can help give you that tight and toned tummy. The key to doing crunches is that you perform them properly to get the maximum benefit. When a crunch is done improper it can actually be detrimental and hurt your back and neck. Here is how you can be sure that you perform a proper crunch every time.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Carpeted floor or exercise mat

1. Lie down on the floor with your hands behind your neck and your feet flat on the floor. Your feet should be approximately a foot away from your butt with your knees bent. Your heels of your feet should be aligned with your hips.

2. Keep your head parallel to the floor and your eyes should be staring up at the ceiling at all times. Crunch your way up but do not pull on your neck at all!. Allow your stomach muscles to do all the work as you slowly lift your shoulders up to a 30 degree angle. Don't rise above 30 degree angle because this may cause strain on your back.

3. Squeeze and hold this position for 3 seconds. Make sure that your abdominal muscles are contracted the whole time.

4. Slowly return your shoulders back to the floor to starting position. Repeat the exercise, making sure that you have this proper form every time you crunch your body up.

Tips & Warnings

• If your neck hurts while doing a crunch this means that you are using your hands to pull up on your neck and not your stomach.
• Do not bounce when you perform crunches. You want smooth and controlled movements to work your tummy the most effectively.

[Susanh]

on 11/19/2008 One note too - I find it helps my back if I press the small of my back toward the floor. Great article!