This abdominal curl exercise is very healthful to your abdominal muscles.  The abdominal muscles provide bracing and stability to the trunk. Strengthening this group of muscles can help your posture.

1. Lie on your back on the floor, knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
2. Place your hands behind your head, elbows pointing out.
3. Slowly raise your shoulders and upper back off of the floor to the count of two.
4. Pause. Slowly lower your shoulders back to the floor to the count of two.
5. Repeat 10 times for one set. Rest for one to two minutes. Then complete a second set.

Make sure you:

• Breathe during the movement. Try to exhale as you raise and inhale as you lower.
• Don’t pull on your head or neck with your hands.
• Keep your chin lifted toward the ceiling and elbows pointed out throughout the exercise.

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