How To Do & Muscles Worked

sit-ups

Sit-ups are a core exercise that specifically target the rectus abdominis muscle. Strengthening the abdominals is crucial for maintaining a stable lower back, especially with lifting tasks. They can also give you the appearance of having a six-pack.

DIFFICULTY
Easy
Moderate
Challenging

Which Muscles Are Worked?

Diagram of primary and secondary muscles worked from Sit-ups

Primary Muscles

Abs

Secondary Muscles

Neck Hip Flexors

Exercise Type

How to do sit-ups Properly

Step by Step Guide

Begin lying on your back with your legs bent and feet flat on the ground. Place your hands behind your head with the elbows out to the side.

Tuck your chin toward your chest and then crunch up and forward as you lift your head off the ground. Press your belly button toward the ground as you tighten your abs.

Then, lower your head back down to the ground.

Repeat for the desired repetitions.

Common Mistakes

A common mistake is letting the legs move too much. Keep the legs stabilized by tucking the feet underneath something or having someone hold them down. This way the hip flexors and legs aren’t helping out too much and you can isolate the action to the abdominals.