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Expert Q&A
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| By Catherine Cram, M.S. Postpartum Fitness Expert Exercise Physiologist | ||
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Are traditional sit-ups OK during pregnancy? If not, what are my alternatives?
Traditional sit-ups aren't recommended for pregnant women after the first trimester because the back-lying position can cause a woman to feel light-headed and dizzy. I recommend doing reverse crunches on a theraball using a resistance band.
In a sitting position on a ball or chair, put the band under your feet, gripping the ends in both hands and then take up slack in the band length until you feel resistance. Lean back 6 to 12 inches pulling the band as you go until you feel your abdominal muscles tighten. Hold that position for five seconds and slowly ease back up in a sitting position. Repeat 10 to 20 times. Remember to exhale as you lean back and inhale as you come forward.
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