Sit up problems-hurts my head and neck

Allisonnleigh

on my off days from the c25k I try to rest my leg muscles, especially my shins! I still want to do some exercise for my abs and upper body just at home but sit ups always give me trouble. I always tend to lift with my neck and it gives me killer headaches. No matter how hard i try not to I always do. What are some other exercises I can do?

kdeaux1959

Not an uncommon problem... Probably due to over use of the hands/arms in lifting up --- focus on the abs for this one.... However, try crunches... Like a sit up but not quite as much... Also try leg-lifts... That may focus more on the lower abs.

Dnsnyder

Plank exercises.

UrbanRunner81

Not an uncommon problem... Probably due to over use of the hands/arms in lifting up --- focus on the abs for this one.... However, try crunches... Like a sit up but not quite as much... Also try leg-lifts... That may focus more on the lower abs.

^^^ agreed. I do crunches and I never have pain. Focus on your abs lifting you up not your arms and neck.

I also like doing planks on my forearms.

BrianSharpe

Plank, side plank, bridges, leg raises (not sure if that;s the correct name - lie on your back on the floor and, keeping your legs straight, slowly raise them until they're vertical and then slowly lower them to the floor), seated knee raises, superman (need to work the back too for core strength).

I don't do situps or crunches.....

giggitygoo

This is my favorite ab exercise: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZZYGP4_-Rg


Zero back strain

IsabelAngel

Are you putting your hands behind your head? This causes you to pull yourself up by your neck. Try holding your hands straight up to your shoulders, or cross arms over your chest. Concentrate on your abs contracting and when they do, you've come up enough.
I have been using an ab-rocket for about 3 weeks and have no problems with my back or neck strain. I can do 200 sit ups a night with this (sets of 50). The rollers ease your back and there is a head rest. Worth a try.

Allisonnleigh

Thanks everybody, I'll def try a few of these ideas!

mfpcopine

Planks and Captain's Chair (in the gym).

mideon_696

yeah you dont need to do situps...in fact the only situps i do are getting out of bed.

planks, torsenator work, leg raises are good ones.