BENEFIT OF SIT UP EXERCISE

Although the exercise term "sit-up" is
often used interchangeably with
"crunches," there's a slight difference.
While both crunches and sit-ups start in
the same laying-down position, sit-ups
involve lifting your entire torso up into a
semi-seated position. In contrast,
crunches simply require you to lift your
shoulders and upper back off the
ground. While the sit-up offers many
health and fitness benefits, talk to your
doctor before trying this exercise,
especially if you have a history of back or
neck pain.

*Requires No Special Equipment

Don't get fooled into thinking that sit-
ups, which require absolutely no
specialized fitness equipment, are
subpar when it comes to chiseling out a
six-pack on your torso. In fact, in an
exercise study commissioned by the
American Council on Exercise,
researchers found that fancy workout
gear does not have an advantage over
the simple sit-up or crunch. You can do
the sit-up in the privacy and comfort of
your own living room without having to
visit a gym.

*Works More Muscles for More Gains

Both the sit-up and the crunch hit your
abs hard, helping you to get a toned and
ripped abdomen in time for your next
visit to the beach or swimming pool. But
sit-ups go one step further. Because
they involve a greater range of
movement and more lifting motion, sit-
ups force you to work not just your
abdominal muscles, but also the
connecting stabilizer muscles, such as
your hip flexors and the muscles in your
legs and chest. If you're looking for a full-
body workout, sit-ups may be a better
option and may give you more bang for
your buck. Additionally, because this
exercise involves more muscles, it may
also help you burn more calories
compared to crunches.