The Sit Up is probably one of the most commonly performed exercises. I have recently been reading the book “Low Back Pain Disorders” by Professor Stuart McGill who has carried out research that looks at the amount of low back pressure that is exerted during the sit up. Depending on how the sit up is performed, there is varying degrees of pressure exerted. The image below represents the 2nd stage of advancing the sit up exercise as reported by Stuart McGill to create the least amount of back pressure.
Progressing This Sit Up.
Level 1. Lying with the head flat on the ground, lift the elbows off the ground.
Level 2. Lying on the ground, lift the head off the floor.
Level 3. Lying on the ground, lift both the head and elbows off the floor.
The sit up exercise focuses on training the abdominal muscles.
Please note: If you suffer from any back pain, it is advised that you speak with your Osteopath or General Practitioner before trialling this exercise.
This blog was written by Osteopath Heath Williams. Heath is the director of Principle Four Osteopathy and Corporate Work Health Australia. Principle Four Osteopathy is one of Melbourne City CBD 3000 leading Osteopathic clinics. The clinic is located in the heart of the Melbourne CBD at 29 Somerset Place (near the corner of Little Bourke & Elizabeth St). Appointments can be made by calling 03 9670 9290 or booking online @ www.principlefourosteopathy.com.