Save your back, improve core/ab strength

[120mm]

Are crunches really bad for you? or are they just ineffective? I've heard they're damaging to your spine but is it true?

Ummm.... Did you watch the Youtube video in the OP? It kind of explains that and answers your questions and stuff....

[Hersh]

After my recent back issues, this is exactly what I have been looking for. Thanks!

Following hernia surgery my doc told me specifically to avoid crunches so this will be a great alternative!


Thanks for passing this along Will.

[WillBrink]

Are crunches really bad for you? or are they just ineffective? I've heard they're damaging to your spine but is it true?

Did you watch the vid? According to Dr McGill, both. Dr McGill has been ahead of the curve in that area for while now, but others in the field with extensive knowledge have generally come to the same conclusions: not very effective, nor particularly healthy for the spine. Seek alternative routes

[MeanRider]

Thanks for the video this will definitly help the wife.

[w3453l]

Following hernia surgery my doc told me specifically to avoid crunches so this will be a great alternative!


Thanks for passing this along Will.

My apologies, couldn't get sound when watching the video. Using the comp at home and the speakers have been out for a while

[QuickStrike]

Good stuff Will, thanks!

As advised by the 5-3-1 book, I've been doing hanging leg raises on the dip bars, + flutterkicks.

Will avoid crunches unless my BJJ/MT coaches forces me to do them.

[QuickStrike]

Thanks for the video this will definitly help the wife.

I'm only assuming here, but only to be helpful...


Has she gotten the memo about "spot-reduction"?

[LMT42]

I won't argue with the doctor, as I agree that repeated bending of the spine isn't good for your back. However, I'd be curious to know if one can get ripped abs without doing bending exercises. I also wonder if he's being a little too proactive. Our backs are designed to bend and crunches don't require much bending.

[120mm]

I won't argue with the doctor, as I agree that repeated bending of the spine isn't good for your back. However, I'd be curious to know if one can get ripped abs without doing bending exercises. I also wonder if he's being a little too proactive. Our backs are designed to bend and crunches don't require much bending.

You get ripped abs by having low body fat. It takes very little in ab workouts to really make the stomach muscles pop out if you are lean.

Personally, I got my six pack by losing weight, and doing both hanging and roman chair leg lifts. Neither of which make the back bend.

BTW, your back is designed to be flexible, not to bend. The flexibility mainly serves to absorb shocks.

Have you ever heard of "alignment" and "lifting with your legs?".

I was in modern dance in college (hey... it got me laid. A lot) and dance coach would verbally spank us for improper alignment. Very few flexibility moves involve bending the back, and those that do flow slowly and gracefully.

[CLHC]

How timely! I need to get on the "ball" (in fact I have a Swiss Ball) once and again in strengthening my abs. I've already got deteriorating lower back disc and that sure sucks! I used to do "crunches" hanging upside down over my doorway with them there EZ-Up Inversion System. Now the need to discipline myself with more exercises.