A lot of people avoid doing sit-ups because they don\u2019t feel like they have enough core strength to do the move without putting strain on their neck and back.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s true it\u2019s not the easiest exercise to master, and many people can\u2019t do sit-ups<\/a> well, so rather than aim for a full sit-up straight off the bat, certified Pilates instructor Liz Hilliard<\/a> recommends starting with a modification.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cSit-ups feel hard because they work your core muscles, which can often be underused and weak,\u201d says Hilliard, who is the founder of Hilliard Studio Method<\/a> in Charlotte, North Carolina.<\/p>\n You may like<\/p>\n \u201cA traditional sit-up primarily taxes the hip flexors and the rectus abdominis\u2014sometimes called the six-pack muscle. If these muscles aren\u2019t strong and well-conditioned, it can be difficult.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is why I recommend our Hilliard Studio Method curl, which works the deepest muscle of the core\u2014the transverse abdominis\u2014building core strength from the inside out.\u201d<\/p>\n Watch Hilliard explain how to do the Hilliard Studio Method curl.<\/p>\n Why Hilliard teaches this sit-up variation<\/p>\n \u201cA common mistake with traditional sit-ups is straining the neck muscles, overworking the hip flexors and using momentum to do the move, bypassing the important muscles of the abdominal wall<\/a>,\u201d says Hilliard. \u201cThis can result in a sore neck and overly stressed hip flexors with less benefit to the core.<\/p>\n \u201cHowever, this curl strengthens the stomach muscles while increasing flexibility and strength in your lower back. When you work your abdominal muscles properly, you\u2019ll have a stronger lower body, better balance and improved strength throughout the body.\u201d<\/p>\n