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There is a common misconception that pregnant women cannot continue to work their abdominal muscles during pregnancy. While it is true that there are some things to consider, and some modifications from your pre-pregnancy routine, it is safe and beneficial to keep your abs strong when you are expecting.
How to modify Ball Crunches for Pregnancy ~ 2:37
Exercise Ball Plank During Pregnancy ~ 2:47
During the first trimester you can usually continue what you were doing prior to pregnancy, perhaps just lower the intensity and range of motion. If you were doing full situps, switch to crunches. If you were doing high intensity ab exercises that involved quick twisting motions or throwing your body around, you probably want to find alternatives.
After your 20th week you no longer want to lie flat on your back. This is where the exercise ball comes in handy. By laying on the ball at an angle you can continue to work your abs throughout your pregnancy.
Remember that the movements are smooth, and the range of motion is small. Crunches are slow and controlled!
As always, talk to your doctor to make sure that it is safe for you to begin an exercise routine. Above all, listen to your body! Stop if something doesn’t feel right.
For more information about exercise during pregnancy visit these popular posts: How to Have a Healthy Pregnancy and Pregnancy Exercise
