Can't Do a Sit Up

PPug05

As you can tell by the title, I can't do a sit up. I can, if I use my arms to aid in pulling myself up once I reach my "stuck" point. If I continue this, will it help me eventually be able to do a sit up without using my arms? I am currently working on my plank time. What other exercises can I do to strengthen my back, abdominals, and hip flexors?

rileysowner

Situps are really not a particularly helpful exercise. I would suggest Planks,

Bird Dogs
https://youtu.be/wiFNA3sqjCA

Stability Ball Rollouts
https://youtu.be/qgSXIDIRDFE

Mountain Climbers
https://youtu.be/fBZHkGT0W5Y

Habiteer

I've read that sit ups are pretty bad for your back anyway. If you absolutely need to, then crunches are slightly better. Planks (which you are already doing) are pretty good for your core though.

meritage4

do a reverse sit up. Start in the situp "up" position and lower yourself to the mat. Do this a few times-it's the same muscles just gravity is assisting you.
and by the way-I trust you are doing bent leg situps and straight legs can cause lower back strain

cathipa

Agree with crunch or reverse sit up. What is your fitness goal in trying to do this exercise? Never do anything that hurts. It isn't worth it.

MsRuffBuffNStuff

If you have access to a pool, lay on your back (a pool noodle or something to hold your shoulders above water works great) and raise your knees to your chest. I have a hernia, so I do my ab exercises in water.

Kullerva

Mountain climbers *shudders*. They kick my butt. In a good way.

slickmickey

http://img.mindbodygreen.com/image/upload/c_scale,w_414,q_80,f_auto,fl_lossy/gal/1kristin-mcgee-boat.jpg
i dont know what that is called, but i do them in the bathtub. the water helps a little so i feel like i can hold it longer without too much stress on my back since i dont have access to a pool