What kind of ab exercise for me?

[MushyMushy]

I started exercising and need to find some kind of ab exercise that will work for me.

For starters, I'm very obese. I had two c-sections with vertical incisions, so those muscles were cut in my lower abdomen. And finally, I was in a car accident that injured my lower back.

I've tried the traditional lying on the floor/hands crossed over chest or behind the head. It hurts my back a lot, plus I don't have the strength in my muscles. I've tried sitting on a dining room chair and raising my knees to my chest, but my muscles are way too weak for that. I tried an exercise ball, but I can't tell if I'm even doing that right. It doesn't feel like my stomach is doing any work. LOL

Am I hopeless??? Do you have any recommendations? I'm sure anything would help at this point!

 

[pjlla]

I would like to hear the answer to this as well. I injured my neck/shoulders a few years ago and it took over a year before I could move normally. I notice that when I try to do traditional crunches or sit-ups, it really puts a strain on my neck. So does any one have any ab exercises that they can recommend for folks with neck/back problems and/or abdominal muscle compromises?...............P

 

[JMD]

Considering the type of injuries you've had, I would check with a doctor or physical therapist that is familiar with your specific conditions before starting any new exercises.

And honestly, if you are very obese, you are better off focusing on a healthy diet and overall fitness plan. Once you improve your general fitness level you can then start to concentrate on your abdominals.