STRADDLE UPS

V-Ups can be notoriously difficult to perform correctly. This is where these Straddle-Ups can help. They are the perfect progression to lead you to mastery of V-Ups.

Initially they will probably feel a little funny, and they do look a little weird, but they will help massively with your ability to be able to perform V-Ups well.

Straddle Ups are a really effective way of building strength in your rectus abdominis (six-pack abs), your external and internal obliques, and your hip flexors. They will also help to increase your core stability and balance. 

Here are some tips and pointers.

• Lie on the floor with your legs together and arms stretched out behind your head.

• If you can hold a hollow body position you can start from there, but it’s not a necessity. It just makes the exercise more difficult.

• Simultaneously lift your legs and torso. Don’t lift the legs up first as you will roll backwards instead of up onto your sit bones.

• As you lift both the torso and legs bring your arms over head to help with your balance.

• Don’t throw the arms overhead, and don’t kick the legs up.

• Keep your legs straight and pull them out to the side.

• As you come up onto your sit bones your arms should be in between your legs.

• If you struggle with balance let your finger tips touch the floor.

• Return to the floor with control. Try not to just relax and flop down.

• Reverse the movement you did to get into the end position.

• Make sure you maintain tension in your core and take short shallow breaths.

• Point your toes throughout. It really does help.

• Initially aim for 8-12 reps.

If you struggle with V-Ups try these Straddle-Ups. The key is in the timing; they may well take some practice. As always it’s important to think about targeting the muscles you’re supposed to be using, in this case your abs and hips.