crunches w/ weights?

bethaudrey

Is it either a bad idea or useless to hold my weights on my abs while doing crunches? don't have a lot of time and want to get the most out of my workout. Can't do plank type exercises as I have a broken toe, and regular crunches don't seem challenging enough on their own...

Mokey41

Crunches are really hard on your back. Try one legged planks for a challenge until your toe heals.

Jribeiro86

I've seen someone do bicycle crunches while holding weights in each hand. It looked strange to me at the time... But I suppose as long as you're careful and aren't straining yourself or trying to lift more than you can handle, you can probably incorporate weights into nearly any exercise and it'll force your muscles to work a little harder. You might want to consider using bands instead, though... Seems like a safer, more effective way of building resistance.

ShiraDarling

Weighted crunches are great. Here's a list of some other really good ab exercises.
http://www.bodybuilding.com/exercises/finder/lookup/filter/muscle/id/13/muscle/abdominals

moustache_flavored_lube

I regularly do decline situps with a 45 lb weight. I don't notice any issues with my back, and it builds noticible strength. Most gyms have an ab machine where you can work with weights as well.

sunglasses_and_ocean_waves

I do full sit ups/twists with weights and really love the feeling. I would not do a one legged plank with a broken toe. If you went off balance for a second, your reflex would be to drop the other leg down quickly. That wouldn't feel nice on a broken toe.

kcallas88

Bumo

baldzach

I do twisting sit ups on an incline bench with a 20lb plate as a regular part of my weights routine. The further from your hips you hold the weight the more resistance it's going to give you, like a simple lever.

bethaudrey

Thanks, all. Shira, great link!!!