Ab Exercises???

[Flyfly_Eclipse]

Hi y'all. I'm new to this portion of the DIS, and I need some advice. I'm still young (17) and have been working on losing a few extra pounds that I've needed to (started gaining some weight in the middle of jr. high). Since November, I've lost 12 pounds, and have another 10 to 15 left before I reach my goal.

My trouble area is my stomach, though. Anyone know any good exercises that work the abs? I know crunches, but I've tried those and it hurts my lower back extremely bad (particially due to me being a bit...."top heavy" if you will...). Are there any other alterntives, or maybe just different ways to do traditional crunches? Any help would be great!

TIA!

 

[cheerdancer11]

Hey! I'm 17 also I really like aerobics videos and they have some really good ones for abs. The best way to lose weight around the stomach is aerobic exercise and eating healthy. I really like Pilates (which works your core ab muscles) and the Pilates for Dummies video is great. There are also a lot of ab specific videos like: Kathy Smith Pilates for Abs, I want those abs, etc... As for aerobics, I'd try either Fat Burning for Dummies, Walk away the Pounds, or any other beginning aerobic workout. PM me if you have any questions, I love talking about aerobics
Shell

 

[Flyfly_Eclipse]

Hey, thanks! I'll be sure to check some of those out, and we'll see how that works out.

 

[welovedis]

Also-if you know someone who has a AB Roller (http://www.asontv.com/products/1057008692.html) it is very helpful in getting a decent form for crunches. I have a lot of weight to lose, plus am very top-heavy and found that this helped alleviate alot of the pain I got from normal crunches but still targeted the muscles that needed the work! Sometimes you can find someone who isn't using one any more, garage sale or consignment/resale shops.

A good tip I learned about workout videos/DVDs is to check your local library. You might find a tape that works great & you decide to buy it--other times I try something that looks great but doesn't work out for me and I didn't have to spend anything to try it out.

GL!

 

[Zoesmama03]

I get the back pains too when doing them on floor. I got a exercise stablility ball and I do crunches on it no back bain and my abs are worked sooo well I feel it for days.

 

[boolou]

Ooooh I love the ball. I just learned this weekend, from my aerobics friend, that you can even strengthen your abs by holding the ball out and turning at the waist. It takes alot to do get serious ab work, but it doesn't bother my back. There are a bunch of other ball type exercises you can do for your abs, glutes and back, I just can't remember them right now.

 

[TinkerBelle_325]

Hi

I'm 19 and my problem area is most definately my abs and my back. Personalli I find that Pilates does wonders for the entire body as well as the abs and I use the Windsor Pilates videos. I used to do them sporadically but have been doing the 20 minute tape everyday for two weeks and ive already started losing inches off my waist and feeling more toned. Hope this helps

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

I am an "Old One" here and want to offer my $.02 to all.
All the info given so far is spectacular. We women seem to have that problem in general I think just because of our body signature. As long as you don't let it get too out of control you will be who you are.
That said,
I particularly use the Winsor Pilates 20 min daily and have found that to be quite helpful in keeping me going and allowing me to regain strength I once had.
Find whatever works for you and remember to keep on as you grow older. Those aches will continue and may even worsen if you let your core muscles deteriorate.
I am proud of all of you that you are interested in staying healthy.