Post Pregnancy Core Strengthening

by Angela
(Scurry, Texas)

Hello. I am 31 years of age and had my second child 11 months ago. I eat healthy (lacto ovo vegetarian) and an having difficulty returning my core to it previous state.

I lost the rest of my weight quickly and my midsection remains the battle. My abdomen muscles are now weak and I have the "pooch".

I am 5ft 8 inches and weigh 129 pounds. My pre-pregnancy size was a 4, but my midsection is making me a 6-8. Not that those are unfavorable sizes, but I want to be proportionate again and healthy overall.

I am new to Pilates, so would you recommend for beginners or for weight loss?

Thank you.



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Hi Angela,

Congratulations! I just had a baby girl this week and am anxious to see how fast I get back to a size 4-6 as well.

Breast feeding seems to take the weight off quickly post pregnancy, but yes, the core muscles have been compromised in the process of stretching.

I am going to get back to my Pilates routine 4 days a week along with walking or running the other days to round out my post pregnancy fitness program.

My Beginner Pilates video would be a good place for you to start. It has 2-20 minute progressive workouts and can be found at this link:

Beginner Pilates DVD

A more challenging and very effective workout you can add later is my Pilates Ball DVD, which takes the classic mat exercises and adds the unstableness of the exercise ball to work your core even more.

Pilates Core Ball Workout Challenge

The good news is that doing Pilates regularly will help to lengthen and define your midsection, particularly your waistline.

I especially like the side stretches and side plank exercises to work the waistline; lengthening and strengthening that area.

Regular Pilates exercise gives you the core strength you need to stand taller with better posture and shows off a more flattering figure.

Best of luck to you and a stronger and smaller midsection!