Push-Pull

I'm seeing conflicting information, so I need some help.

I'm trying to be able to hit 30 elbows touching knees sit-ups in one minute, and I need to be able to do it by Jan. 25th.

Starting last Monday evening at 4 sit-ups, I'm am currently able to do 8 as a minimum and 17 as a max, depending on how tired I am, how long since last sit-ups, etc. I've been doing sit-ups and push-ups twice daily, although the time I do them has to vary with my work schedule.

Some of what I've read says that rapid paced full blown sit ups do not work the abs as well as coming up part way and holding then slowly letting back down. I've also seen that doing right elbow to left knees are not helpful either. On the other hand, I've been told that ANY exercise that I can do with my abs will be helpful in getting to my goal of 30/minute.

Can anyone recommend a regiment that will get me to my goal? For example, if I were to do the part-way sit-ups, will that really help me obtain my goal? Any suggestions? Helpful hints? Random thoughts of encouragement?

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jewels

To build and strengthen, you'll want to slow it down. Decline will probably work you the hardest. If you don't have a bench or exercise ball, you can improvise.

Just click on any of the sit ups. This is a great link, BTW, if you ever want to check your form.

http://www.infinityfitness.com/videos/exer.htm

Plan9

Standard situps generally work the hip flexors over the abdominals.

Try doing "mermaid flops" by keeping your ankles together, knees slightly bent, fists under your ass to keep your back from grinding on the ground... and simply raise your feet from about six inches above the ground to around twenty-four. Repeat this up-down controlled motion leg lift exercise until muscle failure four times with short breaks.

Try it with boots or ankle weights for an extra challenge.

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