Why Slant Boards Are Heading Toward Extinction

Question: What is the latest theory on slant boards? I’ve noticed nobody ever mentions using one for doing exercises. I have used one for years but now wonder if that is wise.

Mine has only an 8-inch rise on one end, but are there health issues involved? I’ve been diagnosed with borderline glaucoma and wonder if the slant board has done that to me. I have an appointment with an ophthalmologist soon.

--IDA KUBICA

Answer: The reason that we don’t see the slant board as much as we used to is our increased knowledge of exercise performance. Crunches, reverse crunches and crunches with added resistance became more popular when we realized that the range of motion to fully contract the abdominal muscles is rather short. However, if you read enough ‘70s and ‘80s fitness articles, you’d find the slant board used a lot.

I doubt the slant board caused your glaucoma, but you should present all health concerns to your doctor.

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Stephanie Oakes is the fitness correspondent for Discovery Health Channel and a health/fitness consultant. Send questions by e-mail to: [email protected]. She cannot respond to every query.