Muscles Worked by Sit-Ups
Primary Muscles Targeted
- Rectus Abdominis : This is the main muscle worked during sit-ups. It runs vertically along the front of your abdomen and is responsible for flexing your spine and bringing your chest toward your knees-the classic "six-pack" muscle
Secondary Muscles Activated
- Obliques : Located on the sides of your abdomen, the obliques assist with stabilizing your torso and help with twisting and lateral movements during the sit-up
- Transverse Abdominis : This deep abdominal muscle wraps around your torso and plays a key role in stabilizing your core and spine during the movement
- Hip Flexors : Including the iliopsoas, rectus femoris, sartorius, and tensor fasciae latae, these muscles run from your pelvis to your thighs and help lift your upper body off the ground during sit-ups
Other Supporting Muscles
- Lower Back (Erector Spinae) : These muscles help stabilize your spine and provide balance during the movement, though they are not the primary focus
- Rectus Femoris : Part of the quadriceps, this muscle assists in hip flexion during the sit-up motion
Summary Table
Muscle Group| Role in Sit-Ups
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Rectus Abdominis| Primary mover, flexes spine
Obliques| Stabilization, assists movement
Transverse Abdominis| Core stabilization
Hip Flexors| Assist in lifting torso
Lower Back| Supports and stabilizes spine
Rectus Femoris| Assists hip flexion
Sit-ups are a comprehensive core exercise, primarily targeting the rectus abdominis but also recruiting several other muscles for stabilization and movement
