Is abdominal pain normal during sit ups

Upper abdominal pain during sit ups may be a normal muscle response or may be related to incorrect movements or potential health issues. In most cases, it is caused by abdominal muscle fatigue or lactate accumulation, and in a few cases, attention should be paid to muscle strains or visceral diseases.

Continuous contraction of abdominal muscles during sit ups can cause slight soreness, especially for beginners or when there is a sudden increase in exercise intensity. This type of pain is usually symmetrically distributed on both sides of the midline of the abdomen, with a tight feeling when pressed and gradually relieved after rest. Regular exercise can enhance muscle tolerance, and adequate warm-up before exercise and controlling the amplitude of movements can reduce discomfort. If the pain is accompanied by skin redness, fever, or lasts for more than three days, there may be a slight muscle tear.

Incorrect postures such as excessive forward extension of the neck or hanging of the waist can cause compensatory force from the rectus abdominis muscle, leading to abnormal upper abdominal pain. Some people, due to weak core strength, use hip force instead of abdominal contraction, which may cause iliopsoas muscle strain and radiate to the upper abdomen. Exercise immediately after meals may cause bloating and pain in the stomach due to pressure. It is recommended to exercise one hour after meals. When there are diseases such as inguinal hernia and gastric ulcer, sit ups may worsen the condition, and pain is often accompanied by indigestion or local lumps.

It is recommended to start with a small number of groups and gradually use abdominal rolls instead of sit ups to reduce lower back pressure. Ice compress the painful area after exercise and supplement protein to help muscle repair. If the pain continues to worsen or vomiting or fever occurs, seek medical attention promptly to investigate digestive tract diseases. Daily static training such as plank support can enhance core stability and avoid abdominal training on an empty or full stomach.