Each time deep fibers relax, your rectus abdominus (because it is contracting so hard) will squeeze them in a little more, making your waist-area a little smaller and tighter.

The reason this works to decrease size of your waist is simple. Usually, most people’s abdominal muscles just kind of sit there. They don’t stay tight, therefore your midsection tends to slouch forward and outward.

This technique teaches your abdominals to maintain a degree of tightness and tone in them even when you are relaxed. This keeps your abs in, leading to a visually smaller waist.

For more information on how to properly execute Abdominal Crunch, go to

http://www.fitstep.com/Library/Exercises/Crunches.htm?news

One of best ways to see this principle in action is to do a set as you normally would with your normal grip for about 10 to 12 reps. When you can’t do any more reps, switch to grip as explained above. You should be able to get a few more reps out.

When using this grip you should also find that you can use a little more weight than you usually do for reps.

The reason this trick works is that having your arms straight removes your biceps as limiting link in exercise. It transfers force through your stronger back muscles instead, resulting in instant increased strength!

For information on how to do leg curl exercise, go to

http://www.fitstep.com/Library/Exercises/Leg_curls.htm