How to Tone Your Abs During Pregnancy

Do a pregnancy ab workout to keep your abdominals toned as you prepare for the birth of your baby.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pillows
• Bottled Water
• Exercise Mats

1. Sit cross-legged with your back against a wall. Inhale, expanding your belly and filling your lungs. Exhale, pulling your abdomen in. Start with one set of five reps and gradually increase to 15 sets.

2. Get on all fours with your hands under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Keep your elbows and back in a neutral position. Inhale, pulling your belly button up towards your spine and hold for five seconds. Exhale and release without letting your back sag. Start with one set of five reps and gradually increase to 15 sets.

3. Sit in a semi-reclined position using pillows to support your back, your knees almost level with your chest. Hold arms out straight in front and on the outside of your knees. On an exhale, slightly lift your back off the pillows, pulling your chest toward your knees. Lower your body and inhale. Start with one set of five reps and gradually increase to 15 sets.

Tips & Warnings

• Breathing and focusing on muscle use will discipline you for the birth of your child.
• Sit on a comfortable exercise mat and prop yourself with pillows for comfort.
• Move slow and steady when exercising. Avoid jerking or fatiguing movements.
• Drink plenty of water when exercising.
• Strenuous abdominal exercise when pregnant may cause hip and back pain. Consult your doctor before you do any exercises during pregnancy.