This following exercise is one that can be done anywhere, anytime, and as many times a day as you wish. I can tell you this simple abdominal exercise has given my core tremendous strength after giving birth to Dakota, just a year ago. Done prenatally, this exercise can help the diastisis from becoming severe, or happening at all, and postnatally, can help bring the abdominals back together. I learned this while taking a continuing education course in NYC with Deborah Goodman, PT. This exercise is beneficial to anyone wishing to strengthen their core muscles, and is perfect for both pre and post natal woman. I include it in every one of my pre and post natal fitness classes. Let me know how it works for you or if you have any questions about this or any other type of exercise.
- You simply breathe into the belly and exhale, bringing the naval back to the spine
- Keep the back lengthened and collar bones wide.
- Allow the head to float on top of the cervical spine (neck)
- Count out loud to ten (to ensure breathing), keeping the naval pulled back to spine the entire time, release, breath into the belly and repeat. You should do this at least 4 times. Adding repetitions as you feel stronger, and repeat throughout the day
