The ones that involve anchoring the rib cage while lying down tire out the abs alright, but at the same time the weaker side of my back starts to hurt. I can start feeling it within a minute of anchoring my rib cage. Of course, I've stopped doing them for the time being
Is there a way to strengthen the back muscles or support them better while doing the ab exercises?
Is there a way to strengthen the back muscles or support them better while doing the ab exercises?
3 hours 33 min ago
09/10/2008 - 8:36pm
1. You aren't able to anchor the ribs strongly enough to meet the challenge. I recommend reducing the challenge (e.g. cycle above you instead of out closer to the floor).
2. Maybe you have a habit of tightening your back muscles the way some people furrow their brows. Slow down and try to catch yourself as you tighten up and tr to edit that pattern.
3. It's also possible that you are doing everything just right but because your long muscles (erector spinae) have gotten used to being short, they resist getting stretched and are complaining a little. Recommendation: go bout this gently.