Abs pop out during full-body push ups? What do I do?

[Gibbee]

Sometimes I notice that during full-body push ups my abs (upper all the way down) pop out down the mid-line. If I watch them and really concentrate I can get them back up 'flat' but then I spend my time with my neck bent looking to make sure they're staying up and find that they still pop out during the down motion but I can get them 'flatter' during the push up. Is this a core strength problem? I don't really notice it during planks (of course I check often). Do you have any ideas, Cathe? Should I be working more on 'stitching' my ribs together on regular crunches or go back to push ups on the knees? During push ups on the knees I don't get the abs popping outward. Just looking for some input. Thanks!

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Gibbee! I don't know just how far they stick out but to some degree this is a very natural occurance due to the nature of the position. Gravity pulls down so in this prone position your skin will want to aim towards the floor. Not only that but the mid-line of your abs (running along the top to bottom) do have a slight cylinder-type shape which seems to show itself more in this prone position. As long as your form is correct while doing your ab work, and you are experiencing no serious discomfort, you can do any kind of ab work to condition them (but please do not keep straining to look down so that you do not hinder your form and/or bring on an injury). Based on what you wrote you sound as if you have amazing abdominal strength and control. Keep up the great work