Re: Re: Why Crunches Don't Work?

[Guest guest]

What about the scorpion,Lie on stomach with arms stretched out to the sides.

Rotate hips and kick left foot toward right hand. Repeat to opposite side;and

the superman, prone elevated both arms and both legs at the same time, or

elevated arm and opposite leg. How much stress these two exercises put on the

lumbar spine?

Iglesias MS, ATC, EMT-B

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From: samuel9888 <Sam68123@...>

Supertraining

Sent: Sun, January 10, 2010 12:57:21 PM

Subject: Re: Why Crunches Don't Work?

Hi Ed,

The spinous processes of the vertebrae prevent extension to the point of

creating herniations. Also, the spinal canal is posterior to the disks and

body of the vertebrae and the nerves exit from the formamina of the spinal

canal; therefore, any anterior disk bulges would not impinge the spinal cord or

other nerves. You create more facet joint impingements than disk problems from

hyperextenion of the spine.

I agree that fewer repetitions and mindful use of appropriate resistance is the

smarter approach. Also, grooving spinal stability is the key in extension

exercises. I see people every day in a 45-degree hyperextension bench who fling

their shoulders and head upward to perform the exercise (with or without

additional resistance) instead of grooving the hip hinge action. Sad and scary

to watch.

Merrick, PhD

ACSM CHFS, NSCA-CPT/CSCS, NASM CPT

Bellevue, NE

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