The Facts About Abdominal Exercise And Pregnancy

During the first trimester of your pregnancy it is safe to continue with your normal abdominal exercise program, but they should be phased out as the second trimester approaches.

As you progress into your second trimester, your uterus is becoming larger. Any exercise that is performed while lying on the back e.g sit-ups, bench press will see the uterus causing a restriction of blood flow back to the heart due to the pressure it places on the vena cava, which is the main source of the blood flow return. This can then impact on the amount of oxygen that the baby receives.

Therefore you need to look at alternatives to exercises performed lying on the back. Luckily this is not a problem

There are a number of different type of abdominal exercise you can use. Exercsise that are performed on your side are ok.

There are a number of different exercises you can do that start with you in a seated position and requires that your head remains above the level of your heart at all times. It is also recommended that either your back is supported (large pillows are good) or that you cross your arms across your abdomen, creating a splint.

You are also able to perform exercise where your are on your hands and knees.

There are exercises of different levels of difficulty to cater for women of varying levels of fitness. Below are three simple exercises that can be performed.

Exercise One

Lie on your left side, with your left arm supporting your head and your right hand underneath your abdomen. Legs should be extended slightly.

The movement here is bringing your knees towards your chest to the point where they form a right angle at your hips, then returning them to their starting position.

Exercise Two

Begin on your hands and knees with the abdominals relaxed. As you breathe out contract your abs and bring them towards your belly button. Hold for 1-2 seconds then release as you breathe in.

Exercise Three

Lie on your left side, left leg slightly bent, left extended to provide support. Place your right hand behind your head.

Bring your right elbow and your right knee towards eahc other and then lower and repeat. Once you have finished the set on your left side, turn over and do the right.

You should not be afraid to exercise your abdominals during pregnancy. It will make the job of getting yourself back in to shape post-pregnancy much easier.

If you are new to exercise, or you are unsure about correct techniques for the specific exercises you will be using it is recommended that you seek out the help of a professional

Pregnant Workouts is the best source of workouts that have been specifically designed with the pregnant woman in mind.

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CLICK HERE NOW if you'd like more abdominal exercises. There are also a wide range of workouts available designed by professional specifically for use when pregnant.