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Aerobics/Slapping Abs When Doing Situps?
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Question
For some reason, my brother called me the other day and asked me that when he is doing situps, it would help if he slaps his abs once or twice upon curling up every single time he does a sit up. The questions sounded strange to me, but my brother insist that I help him find out (he has no Internet connection). Thanks for the help.
***Suggestions offered here may or may not help you in your particular situation. Please consult with your physician when adding or changing an exercise/nutrition routine***
Victor,
I don't know of any research or professional information that addresses hitting yourself when working out. Many people who workout (especially those who compete) have rituals that are usually for self motivation. These rituals sometimes turn into actual exercise techniques that have nothing to do with the actual physiological/biomechanical processes related to exercise. These techniques are passed from person to person and before long, they become exercise "facts".
Unfortunately, many of these techniques are silly and often quite dangerous. As an exercise professional, I do not endorse self-inflicted corporal punishment before, during or after working out. If a person wants to lightly slap him/herself a few times for self mental motivation, like for those last 2-3 reps, that's OK. But I don't know of any actual physical/physiological benefit for doing so.
Hope that helps!!!!!!
Sincerely, Daphne
http://www.simplefitnesssolutions.com/articles/ab_muscles.htm
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Answers by Expert:
Daphne E Brown MS CPRP
Expertise
I will answer questions concerning exercise, nutrition, health and diseases related to obesity or sedentary lifestyle. I can also answer questions about being an aerobics/group exercise leader or questions about getting certified with AFAA.
Experience
Receiving my Masters of Science in Clinical Exercise Physiology, I have been Fitness Director on board Royal Caribbean luxury cruise ships, I have given training seminars for aspiring group exercise leaders; I am certified and I work for Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA). I was Senior Exercise Physiologist and lecturer at the Internationally renowned Pritikin Longevity Center and Spa at Turnberry Island Resort in Miami, Florida for almost 10 years and I was also the Fitness Assessment Coordinator at the exclusive Fisher Island Spa Internazionale on exclusive Fisher Island in Miami Beach (famous residents of the island include Oprah Winfrey, Andre Agassi, and Sharon Gless). I've competed in AAU and NAC Aerobics competitions. Currently, I own a Fitness/Lifestyle planning business. I have been in the Fitness industry for almost 20 years and here on AllExperts since 1999.
Education/Credentials
B.S. Biology/Chemistry
M.S. Clinical Exercise Physiology
AFAA Certified and Examiner
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