Below are the benefits of sit-ups shared by fitness expert Shikha Singh.
1. Strengthen core muscles
According to a study published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science, people who did sit-ups had a significant increase in abdominal muscle tone. This exercise targets the rectus abdominis along with the obliques and lower back muscles, which are essential for body stability.
2. Improve posture
Crunches can strengthen the muscles in your abdomen, lower back, and pelvis. These muscles are essential for helping maintain spinal alignment. When done correctly, this can help improve posture.
3. Increase flexibility
Crunches involve a series of movements that stretch the spine and hip flexors. This movement can increase flexibility in the spine, hips, and legs, which benefits overall mobility and can reduce stiffness in the body.
4. Increase muscle endurance
According to research published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, abdominal exercises, including crunches, can improve muscle endurance. This endurance is important for maintaining physical activity over time, improving sports performance, and performing prolonged physical activities without fatigue.
5. Supports balance and stability
Crunches strengthen the body and improve balance and stability. These are important factors for performing dynamic movements, preventing falls, and maintaining coordination in a variety of activities, from sports to everyday activities.
6. Supports weight loss
Crunches are a high-calorie exercise that helps reduce belly fat and build muscle. Increased muscle mass can help boost your metabolism, which plays a key role in your weight loss journey.
7. Enhance athletic performance
A strong core, developed through exercises like crunches, is important for athletic performance. It helps transfer energy efficiently between the upper and lower body, improving strength, speed and endurance in sports like running, swimming and weightlifting.