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How to Do a Sit-Up. Lately, the sit-up has been replaced by the stomach crunch. That's
too bad, since a crunch won't help you get up off the ground—a fundamental daily movement.
You will need A clean carpeted or padded floor surface and something sturdy to tuck your
feet under, like a bed or a couch. Always consult a physician before attempting any
exercise program. Step 1. Lie face up on the floor. Step 2. Bend your knees so that your
feet are flat on the floor. Step 3. Place your hands on the back of your head with your
elbows out to the side. Lace your fingers behind your head. Step 4. In one motion, squeeze
your stomach muscles, lift your shoulders off the floor, and bring your torso upright
while keeping your neck straight and your elbows out. Don’t put strain on your neck
with your arms—lift with your abs. Step 5. Slowly lower yourself back down with a
curved back, one vertebra at a time. If you’re having trouble, tuck your feet under something
sturdy like a bed or couch to make your sit-ups easier. Step 6. Do sit-ups until you’re
exhausted, then—if you’re really hardcore—just roll over on your stomach and start cranking
out those push-ups. Did you know A proper sit-up—one where your feet aren’t braced—also
uses stabilizer muscles in your hips and back, making it good for more than just a six-pack.