a couple of questions

[Maddwraph]

ive been doing 3 sets of 45 crunches and then 3 sets of 13 leg lifts,( when i stop the leg lifts, my back hurts a little) i take a minute between each. If i put a round weight of 10 pounds, is that bad for my back? aslo, i feel a little bit of pain in my arsm after push ups and i do crunches right after so i feel a sharp pain, everytime i wait a while though, the pain goes away. is there a way i can get diseases like arthritis or something by lfiting wieghts and stuff? thanks a lot

[PrideampPoise]

It doesn't sound like you're getting anything like arthritis, and as far as I know, exercising won't cause it. High impact activities, like running, can cause problems, but even then, the benefits usually outweigh the risks, especially if its done smartly.

 

First, if the pain is anything but minor, check with a doctor.

 

That said, for your crunches, make sure you are trying to lift your torso straight up, rather than curling your back. Also, don't release all the way down between crunches, but instead maintain the tension through the entire set.

 

Leg lifts can be tricky. Any time you are arching your back and straining it you are asking for trouble. You can try using your hands to support you back, or doing the leg raises with your knees slightly bent.

 

Or, when doing your crunches, bend your knees and as you raise your torso up, try to bring your knees to your chest. When you release, don't let your thighs go past perpendicular. This will increase the work on your lower abs, without forcing you to arch your back.

 

Also, think about adding a back strengthening exericse. Working the abs but not the back can create an imbalance that can cause back problems.

 

Not sure what to suggest about the arms... where exactly is the pain? Elbow, shoulder, bicep, etc...