Abs Workout: Get Six-Pack Abs and Lose Belly Fat Fast

Achieving washboard abs and losing belly fat involves a combination of high-intensity cardio and core-specific challenges like the 4-week plank. Discover why crunches alone won't give you a flat stomach and how to safely target the lower abs.

Attractive fit ladies are exercising in gym

Best Situps When Dealing With a Bad Back

Published Jul,08 2011 | By Maria Ryan

The best approach to working your abdominals when dealing with a sensitive back is probably to avoid fully sitting up from a lying down position. There are far more effective and safer exercises to work your abs while safely supporting your back. You can still get a great abdominal workout in spite of back issues.

Maria Ryan has more than 20 years experience in fitness and wellness. She holds a Master of Science in counseling psychology with a specialization in psychology of sport. She has reviewed articles for "Women in Sport" and "Physical Activity Journal" and books for "Author Exposure." She has presented on such topics as overtraining and burnout in youth athletes and the psychological impact of injury, and co-authored a pending research study examining stress in college students.