Best ab workout for bad backs

[Matt4g63]

I have lost 25 lbs in the since December and I need to start tightening up the mid section . I have been doing regular sit-ups while holding a 25 lbs weight. This seems to work because I can feel the burn however it does put a toll on my bad back.

I was hoping that you guys could suggest effective ab workouts that wouldn't hurt my back.

Thanks, Matt

[Mikael92]

reverse crunches, palloff press, anti rotation exercises, planks and weighted planks...there are many variations.

[NoFear27]

Hanging knee raises, leg raises, bicycle crunches.

[subpolarbear]

Hanging knee raises, leg raises, bicycle crunches.

I would have to agree with these exercises. Regular situps put strain on your back and neck and they do not get as many results as other stomach exercises. But the best advice I can give is to try different variations until you find what works for you.

[spot_skater]

I like rope crunches. Slow and controlled.

[Thetallstewy]

Yes, do these exercises, but you should also work on your back, especially lower back.

http://www.americanfitness.net/bodys...tension-1.aspx

I found this the best exercise/bench for lower back. When I had a weak lower back, I started with this and before I knew it, my back is the strongest part of my body.

PS. If you really want tighten the mid section, you shouldnt just do the ABS, but also the lower back.

If you a bad back to the point where you have a slipped disk or something, then ignore this advice. LOL. You should talk to a doctor about exercises if its this serious. Hope this helps.

[FlexinMike]

I find if you do a half crunch(on a padded bench) squeezing and holding at the top(2-3 seconds)it is a very effective ab exercise and easy on the lower back.

[Matt4g63]

I dont believe that it was a slipped disk however i have been to a doctor about my back however he knew I workout daily and did not suggest different workout methods.

[Kahuna-McAuley]

You need to do more 'core' than just abs - its the muscles all the way round your torso that will you give you the slimmer look.

Planks, like a few of the other guys rightly suggested are great. Also think about looking at your posture and maintaining a good core position throughout the day, this will not only help you burn more calories but help that back problem.

It may take a while to get used to but will be worth it in the end

[MAC-10]

An exercise my doctor showed me to help strengthen the ab and back muscles to help cope with lower back pain was to lay on a carpeted surface, push the natural arch in your back flat against the floor, rotating your hips forward but not lifting them off the ground (try as if your pushing something through the floor), hold that for 5 seconds, then rest, and do that for 10 minutes a day. You can try that, it has helped me greatly strengthening my abs and lower back while getting rid of the pain.

[BahadurShah]

Are any "situp-assist" type products that are easier on your back worthwhile (eg Ab Lounger, Ab Rocker, whatever).

[mattman]

how do i do a plank?