Are you longing for flat abs?
If you answered yes, you’re definitely not alone!
During pregnancy your abdominals get so stretched out of shape that your tummy is usually the last area to get back to normal. I know for me, it took a little over nine months to really get back to my pre-pregnancy look in the mid-section. I mean I still lost weight and looked great, but my midsection was really the last to come back.
When it comes to flat abs, though, you really need to know the secret. For example, if you’re thinking that you can just do sit-ups every night—uh-uh!
The key to a flat tummy is training (and connecting to) your core. In fact, it’s your deep abdominal muscle (transverse abdominus), and not your rectus abdominal (the six pack!), that will help you regain (or get) a flat stomach.
So forget the sit-ups and rather start with this great exercise ...
Heel Drag
- Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
- Set your core by pulling your belly button in towards your spine (with a neutral spine, no pelvic tilt, and relaxed buttocks).
- Slowly slide one heel along the floor keeping your heel in contact with the floor at all times and then slowly return the leg back to starting position.
- Repeat four times each leg.
Note: This exercise will seem easy if you’re not doing it right! You must put your mind in the muscle you’re working and really concentrate on keeping your hips level at all times. Do not let the opposite hip to the leg you’re working lift off the ground at all when you’re extending the leg out!
Happy exercising.
Your friend,
Michelle
Helping you "Look Good and Feel Great" during pregnancy and beyond!
