I read a thing that said sit-ups aren't as good as plank for toning the stomach
startingstrength.com/articles/abs_rippetoe.pdf

His emphasis is on weightlifting but he makes some interesting points about the primary function of the core muscles being to strengthen the spine under load.
( The Light in Chains don't touch the Pope's boner, Sat 20 Nov 2010, 14:44, 2 replies, latest was 15 years ago)

interesting
i still think the answer has to be both though.

unfortunately!
( rachelswipe with a fork, Sat 20 Nov 2010, 14:49, Reply)

I use to incorperate the plank in my routine but not for a while now.
I use to do loads of crunches because I thought I might actually get rid of my belly and have it toned at the same time but it's not shifting so there's no point now. I don't work too much on upper body because I'm big enough as it is so don't want to add muscle up there.
( girlinthehole, Sat 20 Nov 2010, 14:55, Reply)

He points out that crunches are good when you start but they quickly stop doing any good
Plank it up!
( The Light in Chains don't touch the Pope's boner, Sat 20 Nov 2010, 14:58, Reply)

You won't get rid of the belly by doing any form of resistance training.
It's cardio and diet to shift fat.
( Dr Preference AjcuiVd289, Sat 20 Nov 2010, 15:00, Reply)

I know.
I thought that I would do cardio to lose fat and crunches to tone as the weight went. But the belly's not shifting and I'm not giving up the plonk so:

Jelly on a plate
Jelly on a plate
Wibble wobble
Wibble wobble
Jelly on a plate

And now I'm off. Bye!
( girlinthehole, Sat 20 Nov 2010, 15:05, Reply)

Bye!
I have to admit I'm similar - cutting out booze and pizza is never going to happen. The gym just stops me having to be craned out of my bedroom with the window removed.
( The Light in Chains don't touch the Pope's boner, Sat 20 Nov 2010, 15:09, Reply)