My jaw hit the floor when I saw the results of this scientific study about the world’s most popular stomach exercise— sit ups…
“Herniation (posterior and posterior-lateral regions of the annulus) occurred with relatively modest joint compression but with highly repetitive flexion/extension moments.
Increased magnitudes of axial compressive force resulted in more frequent and more severe disc injuries.”
Reference: Callaghan, J.P., and McGill, S.M. (2001) Intervertebral disc herniation: Studies on a porcine model exposed to highly repetitive flexion/extension motion with compressive force. Clin. Biom. 16(1): 28:37.
This study was performed by the world’s TOP spine health expert, Dr. Stuart McGill.
What they concluded was that repetitive flexion and extension of the spine, from exercises like sit-ups, cause spinal disk herniation.
In fact… the more reps you do, the higher your risk for back pain and slipped disks.
But, that’s not even the worst part.
Just like crunches and side bends…
Sit-ups specifically target your vertical rectus abdominis muscles, which run vertically across your stomach, so they can actually make your belly stick out more.
This is why sit-ups, crunches, and side bends are the WORST 3 exercises you can use in your quest for a flatter belly.
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