Abs! To do – or not to do – while pregnant? There is a big misconception out there that you shouldn’t work your abdominal muscles while pregnant. While it is true that in your second and third trimester you should avoid ab exercises that require you to lay on your back, pregnant moms should still find a way to strengthen their abdominal muscles while pregnant. Many experts agree that working abdominal muscles while pregnant not only benefits moms during pregnancy, but also during labor & delivery and helps their bodies to recover post-baby. Below are three abdominal exercises that I do while pregnant – they are safe, good for your body, and easy to do in your very own living room (as you can see from my pictures below)!
Opposite Arm & Leg Extension
Hop down on the floor (which is so simple when you’re pregnant, I know ;-)) and get on all fours. Lift your right arm and left leg into the air; hold this pose for twenty seconds, then lower your arm and leg. Repeat those same steps with your left arm and right leg. If possible, try to do several sets on both sides.
Saxon Side Bend
Grab a pair of light-weight dumbbells and lift your arms above your head (or, if you’re at home and don’t have any weights, just lift your arms above your head without holding any extra weight – it will still work, trust me!). Bend your elbows slightly, keep your back straight, and slowly bend your upper body to the right side as far as possible without twisting; pause, then return to the upright position. Repeat on the left side.
Standing Crunch
Start in a standing position, keeping your feet hip-width apart. Next, draw your belly button into your spine and squeeze your glutes in. Crunch forward and tighten your abdominal muscles. (It should feel similar to doing a crunch on the floor.) Do fifteen in a set; try for three sets. Enjoy!
Note: This is the second in a series of posts entitled “Pregnant & Fit?! Is it possible?” For more from Jenn, click here.
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