Hot Yoga Pose Forums > Sit Up

There is a correct way to do a sit up and it's all about lengthening the back before pulling it forward. Reach for the ceiling before you reach for your toes you dont risk seeing stars in your sit ups!

July 27, 2014 | Registered CommenterRhonda Uretzky, E-RYT

I am glad to have this book and this post to help me finally study and digest how to do the sit up. Reading about the step by step process helps me understand why the technique makes sense as is, and how important the steps are to follow. The break down of the two exhales took me awhile to follow, and I always used to be tempted to look down during the exhales. These are things I'll know to look for if I teach.

December 16, 2018 | Registered CommenterPamela

I found that the book's explanation on how to do the pose was a revelation. I know I have asked a few people about he right way, but for some reason I don't think I really got it until I actually read the text a few times. I guess it is in a script, but since it is said so quickly it is hard to get, at least it was for me. I feel like I learned from watching other students. I almost feel that that pose needs to be explained to the new student before or after the first class in detail.

December 18, 2018 | Registered CommenterIrina

I feel the same way as my fellow TTs about the sit-up--I was never 100% sure how to do it. I agree that it's in the script but this particular movement goes so fast. The description in the book helped a lot. I always have a problem with the first sit-up, and after that I am able to do them--not sure what that is all about, but I liked the way the author described alternate ways to get up off the floor if the sit-up is difficult.

December 19, 2018 | Registered Commenterirenem

I just now realized I missed posting here. I also can find the first sit up difficult. I think it takes one to get in the swing of it, but I have to admit it is way easier to do having learned the scripting. Knowing the words makes it way easier to move through with proper form. Oh good, I just realized I did post just in the other situp forum.

December 26, 2018 | Registered CommenterPaula

No worries, Paula, I saw your post on the SIT UP in another area..but thanks for catching up here too! The sit up is a TON of instructions in a small space of time and it goes FAST but you can see why ALL the cues are necessary - to protect the lower back in this delicate pose! So glad you are all seeing the nuances and understanding the IMPORTANCE of saying everything in the script for SIT UP!

December 28, 2018 | Registered CommenterRhonda Uretzky, E-RYT

I love the fast pace of the script and this pose. While trying to get it all in quick can be a challenge, it's a great energized after Savasana. I love the stretch to ceiling, it's like a big morning stretch at the end of a restful night.

June 27, 2020 | Registered CommenterErica

Yes, Erica, the stretch to the ceiling is a controversial move ; sometimes this sit-up is done in one move from floor to holding the toes for the double jerk/double exhale. But I agree, I wouldnt want to miss the delicious stretch to the ceiling on the way!

June 27, 2020 | Registered CommenterRhonda Uretzky, E-RYT