Sit-ups are workout classics, but that doesn't mean everyone knows how to do them correctly. This handy guide covers frequently asked questions about sit-ups, crunches and other core exercises, including how many sit-ups you should do a day.

How Many Sit-Ups Should I Do a Day To Build Abs?

If you’re working toward a six-pack, targeting your core is the way to go. Sit-ups can give you firmer abs, toning your stomach and making you sweat.

Beginners should start with two or three sets of eight to 12 repetitions. How many sit-ups a day should you work up to?

Once you’ve strengthened your lower back, you may be able to handle 15 to 25 repetitions for each set. Just be careful not to push yourself too hard.

Are Sit-Ups Better Than Crunches?

Many fitness enthusiasts actually prefer crunches to sit-ups. A crunch is when you keep your lower back on the floor and only lift your head and shoulders. This exercise tenses your core muscles too, but it’s less likely to strain your back. Start with three sets of 10 to 12 reps.

The truth is that you have many core exercises to choose from, including:

• Glute bridges
• Abdominal presses
• Bicycle (elbow-to-knee) crunches
• Planks and side planks
• Mountain climbers

When you follow a variety of exercises for your abs, you give other muscles a workout, too. For example, planks help your hamstrings and glutes. Aim for three sets of 30 to 60 seconds each.

How Fast Should I Do Sit-Ups?

Don’t be surprised if you ask friends how many sit-ups you should do a day, and they tell you a crazy number, such as 100 or 200. Those are Hollywood numbers. Movies like to show the hero flying through sit-ups lightning fast.

In real life, slow and steady gives you better results. Taking your time and holding your position for a few seconds makes your core work harder.

Another reason to slow down is that you have to do sit-ups carefully to avoid hurting your back. The lower back should stay straight the whole time. Moving quickly can curve your back and cause strained muscles.

What Is the Right Way To Do Sit-Ups?

With sit-ups, you may need to practice a bit to get the form down correctly. Here’s what to do:

• Place a mat on the floor and lie down with your muscles relaxed.
• Bend your knees and put your feet flat on the floor so your legs look like the letter A.
• Bring your hands up beside your head, wrapping your fingers behind your ears.
• Tense your abs (while exhaling) and slowly lift your upper body toward your knees.
• Inhaling, gently lower your torso back to the floor.

You’re not “cheating” if you put your feet under something heavy to stabilize your lower body either. This method is a smart way to do sit-ups without hurting yourself.

How Many Sit-Ups Should I Do a Day To Burn Belly Fat?

No exercise specifically targets belly fat. A consistent routine of aerobic exercises can help you lose weight, however ZOZOFIT's technology will motivate you by showing your progress in real-time. You can even try the ZOZOFIT app first for 7-days free with a one-month or three-month subscription to see your progress in ral time.