On crunches...to get the maximum benefit...

Is doing them slow and less repitition better then doing them faster and doing more?

I was told that I should do them slower...holding the crunch.

Note: I have lower back problems so the last thing I want to do is hurt myself and then be incapacitated for a month!

Advice??

yeah, i am told by a trainer that doing them slow and keeping tight, REAL TIGHT the entire time is the best. Also maybe adding some weight. I use a 10 pound plate and hold it above my head. Or a medicine ball.
A great way to deal with back pain while doing crunches (and i think just helps with a more effective overall crunch) is to use an exercise ball. If you don't have one already, it's a great piece of home equipment and very versatile.

My advice would be if you have back problems would be, have you ever seen those excercise balls before, there called balance balls you can get them at Target, Walmart, Ulta, and some GNC's carry them, but what you do is blow it up and it helps with crunches and it doesn't put a strain on your back or tail bone, and you may even get better result doing that way! I love my balance ball! I have back and hip issues some time and all the stress that you would feel goes in to the ball and its a relief! There only about $15.00 its a great deal!

Have you tried Pilates? If you can get to a studio and work with an instructor for a couple of sessions, the program is designed to work with people's physical problems--esp.back and neck problems. And man, does that work the abs!!

Why crunches? What is your goal?

Take care with crunches because of your back.

Hi there! The stability balls are great, but just as a side-bar, don't let children (especially 200-lb. overgrown children aged 19 years!) bounce and jump on them because you may find it deflated on the floor - my son found this out the hard way! Wish I had been home to see his face as the ball imploded and he crashed to the ground - funny now but at the time I was a little angry that he was playing with my toys! So, invest in a good ball (I have a Reebok ball now) because it should be stronger!

Have fun and be careful!

Laura

I've heard the same - slow. Breath out while crunching in and breath in while releasing - repeat, repeat.

My abs & waist need major work...I know much of it is loose skin due to 2 pregs and losing 45 lbs but I need to tone as much as I can. Any other ab exercise you can recommend. I do not have time to go to gym and have about 1/2 hour I can spare a day. Thanks!

I would buy an ab workout video. I don't have one though so I don't know which is best.

Hi

I am doing leg lifts to get rid of the ol' gut!

My friend suggested to pay very close attention to your stomach muscles... make sure you are holding your muscles IN instead of OUT, or your muscles will build outwards, and your tummy will stick out... we don't want that!

M

Slow and controlled is best (in most cases) for all exercises.

Make sure you breathe properly too.