A low stress abdominal exercise should be one that won’t hurt your lower back, is safe, easy for beginners, and really builds your core strength.
The ‘key’ to a great low stress ab exercise is to typically do something other than sit-ups that doesn’t put added stress on your lower back.
An exercise like a plank or standing knee raise will keep you lower back in a stable position if you are doing the exercise correctly.
A sit-up will leave your back vulnerable and out of position.
Just remember to always consult a doctor before exercising and never exercise with an injury.
Try these 5 low stress abdominal exercises.
Low Stress Abdominal Exercises
1. Plank
A secure and stable low stress abdominal exercise is the plank.
Some people may experience lower back pain with this exercise because of the way they are doing it.
You need to keep your hips above center when you are in plank form with abs engaged and a strong and stable back.
The flexion of your abs should take the stress off of your lower back.
2. Mountain Climber
Another safe and easy exercise for beginners that challenges your abs is the mountain climber.
With this exercise you can either be in plank formation or using straight arms.
Remember to keep your hips above center.
The natural form of this exercise is typically good enough to relieve stress in your lower back.
3. Standing Knee Raises
A great exercise for beginners is the standing knee raise.
This easy and low impact exercise allows you to challenge your hip flexors and keep the stress off your lower back.
All you need to do is find something to hang onto while you alternate lifting your knees into the air.
Exercisers both young and old can strengthen their abs with standing knee raises.
Add ankle weights to make this more challenging.
Quick Tip!!
4. Pike
Challenging low stress exercise for advanced exercises is the pike.
You can do this exercise with either TRX suspension straps a stability ball.
Simply get into plank position and then lift your hips as high as you can and return back to playing position.
As you go down make sure your abs stay strong and you end above center.
5. Pushup Jack
The puship jack is more of a dynamic AB exercise.
You simply drop into a push up and on the way down kick your legs apart.
On the way up kick your legs back together.
If you want to make this easier as a beginner, just do a knee pushup.
All of these plank formations help alleviate the stress from your lower back.
Summary: Low Stress Abdominal Exercises
A low stress abdominal exercise for beginners needs to be safe, is going to increase your core strength and is possible for most beginners. Pick an exercise that puts you in a stable enough position that it won’t hurt your lower back with exercises such as a plank or mountain climber. Remember, the key is to keep your hips elevated above center and your abs engaged during any exercise that involves a plank type exercise. Always use good form and consult a physician before starting any exercise program.
