Related Terms

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Background

• Abdominal exercises are a set of movements designed to strengthen abdominal muscles. There are many different techniques, which can be divided into lower and upper abdominal exercises. The most common exercises are "crunches" or "sit-ups."
• Abdominal muscles are commonly activated by active flexion of the trunk through a concentric muscle contraction. Strong abdominal muscles help stabilize the trunk and unload lumbar spine stress.
• The trunk flexion can be measured by the distance from the sole of the foot to the tip of the finger when an individual is bending forward without bending the knees.

Technique

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Evidence

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Safety

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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