Each time you perform an abdominal crunch, you are flexing your spine forcefully and repeatedly, which causes it more stress than it is designed to handle. Over time, it puts excessive strain on the part of the lower back that has the most nerves, leading to its wear and tear.

According to True Fitness Master Trainer, Wendy Cho, another way of activating the core would be to do stability exercises, as anything that challenges one’s balance would activate the deep core muscles. Wendy says: “One simple exercise I do with clients is just standing on one leg and then taking them through gentle movements still on that one leg. And then increase the level of difficulty gradually.”

In fact, sit-ups or crunches only focus on toning the rectus abdominis muscle, a pair of flat, long muscles that run the length of your abdomen, and neglect working your core muscles. These comprise the deep muscles in your back, abdomen and pelvis – what you rely on for daily living as well as sports and recreational activities.

"Another way of activating the core would be to do stability exercises, as anything that challenges one’s balance would activate the deep core muscles."

- Wendy Cho, Fitness Development Manager at True Fitness.

Wendy has been in the fitness industry for over 12 years and has numerous fitness and personal training credentials from FISAF (Federation of International Sports, Aerobics and Fitness Inc), AFPA (American Fitness Professionals and Associates) and IKF (International Kickboxing Federation).

Besides her extensive experience in weight, endurance, strength, rehabilitation and core training, her naturally vivacious personality and ability to connect with people is undoubtedly another asset which contributes to her success in this industry. In her capacity as Master Trainer of True Fitness Singapore, Wendy plays a pivotal role in creating and introducing new forms of training programmes.