Having a happy, healthy pregnancy is every expecting mama’s number one goal, right? Well, I would hope so at least. Many of us are focused on staying in shape through pregnancy with the end goal of getting back into shape quickly after baby is born. The truth is that keeping up your health and fitness during pregnancy will help your pregnancy itself to go more smoothly! Keeping your core strengthened and engaged will prevent (or at least help) back pain, lessen the pregnancy waddle, improve your balance, and help when the time comes to deliver baby. The trouble is that your abs are now shaped differently and need to be worked in different ways. Everyone’s comfort level and exercise style is different, but here are a few suggestions. Keep reading for 8 moves to work your abs during pregnancy.
*Please note, I am not a medical professional or trainer. These are just suggestions of moves that myself and other mamas have used during pregnancy. This post is meant for mamas who are comfortable with their fitness level and are looking to continue to exercise through pregnancy. Please talk to your doctor and/or a certified trainer if you are looking to start any new exercise routines.
Here are 8 moves to work your abs during pregnancy:
Push-ups
Push-ups are an awesome total body move. They strengthen your core and upper body at the same time. Over time, your range of motion may become limited, but you can always modify by doing push-ups on your knees or against a wall to adjust for your comfort!
Planks
Similar to push-ups, planks are a great way to tone your whole body and keep your core in shape. Also, strengthening your obliques and serrates will help you out during labor!
Side Planks
Adding another level to your planks, side planks engage your transverse abdominals and the muscles around your hips.
Yogi Squat
This one is not specifically just an ab strengthener, but the yogi squat is my all-purpose favorite pregnancy move. Keep your abs engaged, hips open, and balance in check. Sit in a yogi squat while you watch tv. Your body will thank you during labor.
Bird-Dogs
These seem to be the number one recommended pregnancy move. I see them everywhere! They’re simple and don’t wear you out too quickly, so they’re a nice way to get in some exercise when you’re not feeling full beast-mode.
Candle Stick Dippers
Back to keeping your obliques in shape, candle stick dippers are great. They can easily be modified to fit your comfort level with the placement of your arms and just simply not leaning over as far.
Standing Bicycle Crunch
Many women prefer not to spend time on their backs later in pregnancy. You can still benefit from bicycle crunches by doing them standing up.
Standing Side Crunches
The same goes here. You will want to avoid standard crunches during pregnancy, but side crunches can easily be done while standing or sitting on a yoga ball.
Mamas, what are some of your favorite moves to work your abs during pregnancy? Share in the comments below.