Abstract

This discussion is an overview of the jeopardy to the iliopsoas muscle at its thoracic and lumbar spine insertions and the subsequent problems of low back pain. The supine double leg lift, an action employed by many coaches and exercise instructors in conditioning programs, does not effectively strengthen the abdominbal muscles. This exercise essentially activates the hip flexor muscles and statically (isometrically) contracts the abdominal muscles. The abdominal muscles do not cross the hip joint and therefore are not isokinetically involved. This review concludes that the hook-knee, curl-up exercise with a trunk twist and the feet unsupported is the most effective and safe abdominal exercise, because it is safe and non-inclusive of the hip flexor muscles. Verf.-Referat