Why are stomach exercises important?

The thought of getting on the floor and doing sit-ups isn’t very appealing. You may have nightmares of gym classes where you strained yourself to keep up with the gym instructor. At that time it seemed that the basic sit-up was the only thing that would make your stomach muscles stronger but now it is just one of numerous exercises that help with that hidden six pack that you have.

Strengthening the abdominal muscles is important not only for tightening up that gut but also for keeping your core muscles strong. Your stomach, your lower back and your hips are an important part of your overall strength many believe that you can’t be physically fit without a strong core.
Something that you probably have heard and it is well worth repeating, you can’t lose weight by just doing sit-ups or any other stomach exercise. You lose weight by eating fewer calories and burning off calories and the weight comes off everywhere not just in the stomach area.

Here is a great video from Expert village to get you started.

Stomach exercises

The crunch – similar to the sit-up but you have your knees bent which prevents stress on your back

press up back extension – lying flat on your stomach with your hands under your shoulder, push up lifting your shoulders off the floor

alternate bird and dog exercise – kneel on the floor with your hands flat, stretch one leg out then another

Knee to chest exercise – lie flat on your back with your feet touching the floor. Wrap your hands around one knee and pull the leg toward your chest. then do the other leg

Wall sit – stand in front of a wall (about 2 feet) lean backwards till your back is against the wall. Carefully slide down the wall till you are in a sitting position. Return to your starting position.