Full situps with legs extended
Any exercise depends on the execution and goal.
At one time “full sit ups” were “in” , I did them in P.E. as a kid.
The “roll up” in Pilates is used all the time which is very similar to full situps.
I think any exercise done “just because it’s out there” and without guidance can be contraindicated.
As always, know your reasons why, keep your certification and CEC’s current, keep learning, keep asking questions, and most importantly, learn the biomechanics of all the exercises and then decide what works best for your clients.
Check out your ACE guidelines for this.
Hi Averil,
I agree with Susan. There is a lot of “gray” areas in the fitness world. I personally have never come across a bad exercise, only bad exercises for certain people. Certainly, if you have or are suspected of having some lower back issues, doing any type of crunch is probably not a good thing. However, crunches with legs extended can be great for many different types of athletes.
If you can tell me the reason behind performing a sit-up then I can further assist in answering the question.
Anyway the core is commonly trained through mobility exercises such as flexion or extension. However, from a “functional” perspective – it is rarely how we utilize these muscles. Rather they are used to prevent motion not initiate it.
Fuel the Movement,
JM
I personally do not use this exercise, but like so many other exercises, what we as trainers decided to add to our exercise tool kit depends on our comfort level and philosophy. I agree with Joanne that there are many, many other ways to work these target muscles, and for my money “when in doubt (and there are other, safer and/or more effective options) why do it?”
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
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