Understand the Difficulty of Torque Situps: Expert Response

  • Thread starter hshphyss
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In summary, it is more difficult to do a sit-up with your hands behind your head because it increases the moment of inertia, making it harder to rotate your body. This is compared to having your arms stretched out in front of you, where the moment of inertia is decreased.
  • #1
hshphyss
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Can anyone help me with this question?

Why is it more difficult to do a sit-up with your hands behind your head than with your arms stretched out in front of you?
 
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  • #2
hshphyss said:
Can anyone help me with this question?
Why is it more difficult to do a sit-up with your hands behind your head than with your arms stretched out in front of you?

I would guess it is because with your arms over your head, they are further from your bodies center of mass, meaning it would take more energy to sit up.
 
  • #3
As Jordan_ indicated, with the arms extended forward, the moment of intertia is changed (decreased) as compared to putting hands behind one's head. Putting the hands behind the head moves the mass away from the axis of rotation, the hips.
 

1. What are torque situps?

Torque situps are a type of abdominal exercise that involves using rotational movements to engage the core muscles.

2. How do I perform torque situps?

To perform torque situps, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. Place your hands behind your head and lift your upper body off the ground, rotating your torso to one side as you do so. Lower your upper body back to the ground and repeat on the other side.

3. What muscles do torque situps target?

Torque situps primarily target the rectus abdominis, obliques, and transverse abdominis muscles. These muscles are responsible for stabilizing the spine and supporting the core.

4. Can torque situps help me lose belly fat?

Torque situps can help tone and strengthen the abdominal muscles, but they are not specifically designed for weight loss. A combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise is necessary for losing belly fat.

5. Are torque situps safe for everyone to do?

Torque situps can be beneficial for most people, but it is important to listen to your body and modify the exercise if you experience any discomfort. If you have any pre-existing injuries or conditions, it is best to consult with a doctor before incorporating torque situps into your workout routine.

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