A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is an effective procedure for flattening the abdominal region; however, a tummy tuck should not be used as a weight-loss mechanism. Many people assume there is no need to exercise after getting this procedure, a notion that is wrong and potentially dangerous. According to Docshop.com, patients must exercise and eat healthy to avoid gaining weight after a tummy tuck. Start to exercise as soon as your doctor allows it to help you recover and reduce the chance of blood clots. Abdominal exercises are effective in keeping your new stomach in top shape.
Bent-Knee Sit Up
Bent-knee sit ups, or crunches, are performed lying on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Place your hands behind your head, squeeze your shoulder blades together and keep your elbows pulled back without arching your back. Exhale deeply and contract your abdominals (abs), flexing your chin towards your chest while curling up towards your knees. According to the American Council on Exercise, this movement should focus on pulling your rib cage towards your pelvis while keeping your feet, tailbone and lower back flat on the mat at all times. Curl up until your upper back is lifted; hold briefly and lower back to the floor before repeating.
Front Plank
The front plank is effective at working your entire core. Start by lying on your stomach and keep your elbows close to your sides under your shoulders. Your palms and hands should be facing down and forward. Contract your core and abs while slowly lifting your torso off the floor; you are propping yourself up on your forearms for this exercise. The American Council on Exercise recommends keeping your core stiff during the exercise to avoid arching your lower back, lifting your hips upwards or bending your knees. Keep your shoulders directly over your elbows during this exercise; remember to breathe while holding this position for at least five seconds. Slowly lower your body back down.
Supine Reverse Crunches
Reverse crunches are effective at targeting the lower abs, which is especially important after a tummy tuck. Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet flat on the floor and arms spread out to your sides with your palms facing down. Exhale and contract your core while slowly lifting your feet until your knees are directly above your hips; maintain a 90 degree angle with your knees. Using your arms for support, breathe normally before raising your hips and rolling your spine up as if you're trying to touch your knees to your head. According to the American Council on Exercise, try to keep the 90 degree angle in your knees during this movement. Hold briefly before lowering your spine until your knees return to their position above your hips.
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