With traditional sit-ups or crunches, your feet are usually planted on the ground to start. With butterfly sit-ups, your feet are pressed together at the soles. Your heels will be at least 1 ft (12 in) or so in front of your hips. If you’re not able to press your feet together quite yet, practice stretching and opening up your hips every day so you become more flexible. The more flexible you are, the easier the exercise will be. [3] X Expert Source Souad GharibExercise & Wellness Specialist Expert Interview. 8 July 2021.
Any type of pad works for this, as long as it cushions your back in the process.
This arm position is a little easier for beginners—this way, you don’t have to worry about your arms.
Some people prefer to lean forward when they finish a rep, while others don’t straighten their back all the way.
The exercise is a little more challenging when you keep your arms straight. [11] X Research source
Choose a medicine ball that you comfortably lift for multiple reps. You don’t want to strain yourself![13] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source You can also lift a dumbbell instead of a medicine ball. [14] X Research source
