Abdominal exercise with low back wear

[stube40]

Hi everybody,

After years of doing sit-ups, coupled with a long racket-sports career, my back is beginning to show signs of wear-and-tear. In particular, I often feel a "crunching" sensation in my lower back with every sit up (although on some occasions it doesn't happen) - this in particular puts the fear of god into me that I'll end up a cripple when I reach old-age.

I just wondered if anyone can suggest an exercise that can work my abdominals out without straining my back.

I've seen lots of machines on TV and I'm generally not into these gimmicky things, but in this case I could be pursuaded to make a purchase if it improves the wear and tear on my lower back.

Thanks,
Stuart.

 

[Xab]

It occurs to me that you may need to consider strengthening your back. What all exercises do you do? Do you have any dead lifts or good mornings in your workout?

 

[Trainer01]

If you're hurting from sit-ups. You should do more core exercises, which are isometric, so you're not actually moving. For example planks. Isometric exercises are proven to be better for the core than sit-ups and crunches etc. Look into them. I have a bit more info in my blog also.