In this month's newsletter, you suggest "crunches" for the stomach. How do you do crunches? Is it the same as what I call a sit up?

"Crunches" are a modified version of sit-ups. When doing a crunch you lift you torso slightly up and off the floor, not all the way up to your knees as in a sit-up.

The correct technique for a Crunch is as follows:

1. Lie on your back on a mat with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
   
2. Place your feet slightly less than hip-width apart.
   
3. Cup your hands by your ears keeping your elbows pointed out to the side.
   
4. Your lower back should be against the floor so that you are not arching your back.
   
5. Contract the muscles in your abdomen to slowly lift your torso so that your shoulder blades come off the floor. Beginners may only be able come up one or two inches.
   
6. Support your head with your hands as you come up, but avoid pulling your head forward.
   
7. Keep your eyes focused on the ceiling.
   
8. Take two counts to lift your torso, hold for one count, and then lower your torso back to the starting position for two counts.
   
9. Exhale as you lift your torso and inhale as you lower.

The Pelvic Tilt is also an excellent exercise for strengthening the abdominal muscles. Please see our animated version and description for more information.