Weighted Sit-ups and other core work?

[kurt.partha]

Hi,

I'm doing crunches according to the Marine PFT description (feet on ground, knees at 90 degrees, arms on chest at all times, one repetition is arms to legs, shoulder blades to ground). I also decided to add some weight to the exercise (plate on chest).

My question is:
Is this a bad idea? I got a sense from reading a couple threads and your Abs article that sit-ups/crunch style exercises are somewhat useless and potentially detrimental. Should I worry about balancing the exercise with something such as weighted back extensions? Or just keep balancing it out with isometric core work (squats, deadlifts, presses, etc).

Thank you for your time THANK YOU for putting SS together. It has completely changed my life.

[Mark Rippetoe]

Why are you doing these? Is it a PT requirement?

[Andy Baker (KSC)]

My old First Sergeant used to tell us during PFTs:

"If you aren't getting a 100 on your crunches......get a new partner."

All former Marines should get me on this one.

[Sticks]

My old First Sergeant used to tell us during PFTs:

"If you aren't getting a 100 on your crunches......get a new partner."

All former Marines should get me on this one.

Same thing with ammo can lifts on the CFT now. 1, 2, 5, 6, 9....