Ab workouts make my neck sore

[Techno55]

Hey everyone.  I was looking for an ab workout routine on the internet and I came across one of those old 'Eight Minute Abs' videos on Youtube.  It was basically just eight minutes of different types of crunches so I figured it was as good a place as any to get started.  

So, I did the routine and I did, in fact, feel the burn so to speak in my abs.  I'm in moderate physical shape and it was a bit difficult getting through the whole eight minutes, so I guess that's a good thing.  However, after I was done my neck was sore as hell.  The instructor in the video said several times to be careful not to put stress on your neck, and I was trying my best not too, but it got sore anyway.

I was wondering if this is normal for someone starting an ab workout, or if I'm doing something wrong and potentially damaging to my neck?

[Techno55]

Joy,

Thanks.  I believe I was doing it incorrectly at first, which is why it messed my neck up so bad then.  Now, as best I can tell I'm doing it correctly and the pain is subsiding.  I think you're right, it seems like the soreness is coming from simply holding my head up.

Thanks

[JoyRenee]

The best I can describe doing an ab workout is to pretend there is an apple under your chin and keep your eyes on the ceiling. Never push your chin into your chest- that is one way to strain your neck.

Otherwise, if you're doing it correctly, it's probably just that your neck needs to get used to having to hold up your head while you do the ab routine.

[twehner5]

Thanks for getting back with us!!!

[Techno55]

Hey everyone, thanks for the replies.

I did the workout again this morning.  I took it a bit slower and paid close attention to how my neck felt throughout.  After I was done, my neck did hurt a little, but not nearly as bad as it did the first time.  As far as I can tell, it was holding my neck a bit off the ground the whole time that was causing it.

Joy,

Thanks for the link, I'll check that out.

[JoyRenee]

When I did crunches I always put my fingertips behind my ears without any pressure. Your abs should be the only thing working your body during an ab routine. So definitely try again but maybe try a more recent workout. There's a GREAT ab workout routine at s park p eople (no spaces) and the trainer will talk to you about how to do them without straining your neck. Good luck!

[twehner5]

Also, make sure you are NOT pulling on your neck.  Your fingers should NOT be laced behind your head.  Your fingers should be lightly touching the back of your head and your elbows should be wide.  If you fold your arms, straining to sit up, you will be pulling your neck.

Maybe these "tweaks" will help.

[Mushel]

HI,
Your neck should not hurt - get off the floor get an abs ball. don't over extend all the way back sit on the ball come up ever so slightly.with knees parallel on the floor. Do not pull on your neck rest your neck in your hands concentrate on your abs....the ball is the important item, not only will it work your abs but it will improve your balance.
Mushel