Sit-ups and crunches work the abdominal muscles that provide a more fit appearance and support for the spine and hips. While equipment is not required to perform sit-ups, adding a piece of exercise equipment can keep the user more balanced and focused on the abs while adding intensity to the level of the exercise.
Stability Ball
The stability ball is a popular addition to many home and fitness center workout programs. Performing sit-ups on the stability ball adds new levels of resistance, because in addition to strengthening the core, more muscles are brought into the action to keep the body balanced on the ball. Certified personal trainers at the American Council on Exercise report that sit-ups on the stability ball also work the obliques, or muscles on the side of the abdomen, the glutes and back muscles. Beginners can easily maintain balance on the ball by widening the width at which they keep their feet apart and narrowing the gap as they build strength and balance.
Cables
Cables are usually available in fitness centers or on extensive home workout machines. Cables can be set to the proper height for stretching and pulling the ab muscles while seated and doing sit-ups. Weights can be added for increased resistance and muscle-building. A resistance band that's attached to a stable anchor, such as a doorknob or wall hook, can replace cables. The end of the cable or band is held in both hands and pulled across the body while lifting the shoulders off the floor.
Sit-up Bench
A sit-up bench allows users to perform the exercise from a more prone position. The head usually lies lower than the torso because of the lowered incline on a sit-up bench. Most sit-up benches have handles under which the user can hook his ankles to prevent lower body involvement in the exercise. Variations are available to provide adjustments to increase the level of the incline or add weights to the sit-ups.
Medicine Ball
Doctors at the Sports Injury Clinic report that a medicine ball, free weights or kettlebells are good adjuncts to a sit-up routine for people who have built up sufficient abdominal strength through cables, resistance bands and sit-up benches. Users should move up gradually in weight with a medicine ball, increasing the amount of weight as they get stronger. Good posture is important to maintain when doing sit-ups while holding a medicine ball or other weight.
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