I hear this so many times at Stroller Strides class (even when you think I can't hear you) and I just want to tell all you moms that barring any actual physical injury- you CAN do abs!My coach in high school, Mrs. Boynton (isn't it funny how I remember her name?) used to say "never say you 'can't' just, 'I have not yet learned how to.........'" and that lesson has definitely stuck with me for over 15 years.
Try it yourself- next time we are doing something challenging in class, or maybe when you are doing something challenging at home- instead of writing yourself off with an "I can't" change it a little to "I can't, YET".
And for those of you that really think you can't do core work, either because you don't have the abdominal strength back from pregnancy, you baby won't let you put them down etc. etc. here is a quick & effective exercise to try. This & other amazing tips can be found in Lisa Druxman's book, LEAN Mommy.
Baby Hip Bridge
Starting PositionLie down on the floor or a mat with knees bent, feet flat on the floor. Sit baby on your hips, resting against her back against your thighs. Gently hold her in position. Keep a space between your chin and chest (looking diagonal towards the ceiling). Engage your abs by pulling your belly button towards your spine. Press your weight down through your heels.
Action
EXHALE: Slowly lift hips off of floor toward ceiling by squeezing your glutes and engaging your abs. Your body should be in a straight line from your knees down to your shoulders. INHALE: Slowly return to starting position to complete one rep. Aim for 1-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions.
Special Instructions
Safety should be your main concern, for you and the baby. Make sure that baby is totally secure in all movements. If any exercise is uncomfortable or too strenuous with baby, try it without baby first. Squeeze glutes and abs during both phases of this exercise. Make it harder: Try not to let butt touch ground when lowering between reps.
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