Exercise of the week: Abdominal crunches

JOE continues with its weekly exercise tips to help you tone up and drive towards your ideal physique. This week we look at abdominal crunches, more commonly known as ‘ab crunches’.

Everybody wants flat, firm abs. Right?

The best way to help you achieve that ultimate washboard is by performing ab crunches on a regular basis. However, it takes more than that. Your diet will play a big part in the success rate of this exercise. So make sure you are eating the right foods. You’ll have to give up the junk we’re afraid!

Ab crunches work best when combined with other exercise. For example, you should go for a run to burn off the calories, then work on your abdominal area afterwards.

Performing crunches is a toning exercise rather than one that burns off fat. If you’re attempting to burn off calories by doing a load of crunches you’re a silly silly boy! You will end up building muscle on your abs, which will only make you bigger. That’s not what you want; so make sure you follow these steps:

• For your starting position, you should be lying flat on your back.

• Place your hands on your chest in a crossed position while remaining flat on the ground. Bend your knees to support your lower back. Avoid placing your hands behind your head, as it puts unnecessary strain on your neck.

• Slowly raise yourself up using your mid-section while pushing your back towards the floor. Continue this motion at a comfortable pace.

• By the fifth or sixth crunch, you should start to feel a gentle strain. Use light breathing techniques to aid your comfort.

• Be sure not to over-do it. 20 to 30 correctly performed crunches is enough for any person.

If all that sounds to complicated and confusing, here is an excellent visual aid:

Frank McCann