How to Get Rid of a Postpartum Stomach With Exercises

How to Get Rid of a Postpartum Stomach With Exercises
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Once you have your baby, your midsection may look less than firm. And though you're busy with your newborn, it's still a good idea to devote some time to your physical fitness. With just a few minutes of activity every day, you can slim and tone your stomach and get close to your pre-pregnancy form. Talk with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine to ensure your body is ready.

Step 1

Check to see if you have a gap between your abdominal muscles. When you're pregnant, sometimes the pressure of the growing baby can force your abdominal muscles apart. Lay on the ground with your legs bent and your head and shoulders lifted off the floor. Lift up your right arm and use your left hand to feel your tummy. A separation will feel like a gap in the middle of your stomach or a bulge. To prevent further separation, press your hands onto your abs as you workout. The pressure will give the muscles support and encourage the gap to close.

Step 2

Perform pelvic tilt exercises to tighten and tone your abdominal muscles. Begin by lying on the floor with your arms resting comfortably at your sides. Bend your legs and tighten your abs. Press your back against the floor so it doesn't arch and raise your rear off the floor. Hold for several seconds, and lower back down. Repeat at least five times.

Step 3

Hinge back to tighten your lower abdominal muscles and reduce the bulge so common after having a baby. To begin, start by sitting on the floor with your legs bent. Straighten your arms out and lean your upper body back at the hips. Hold for several seconds and lean forward. Do this exercise slowly to engage your abdominal muscles.

Step 4

Perform cardiovascular exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. This will help you burn calories, which is essential for eliminating excess fat that might be hanging around your midsection. Go for a jog with the baby stroller or follow along with a fitness video. Any activity that gets your heart rate up will work.

References

Article reviewed by Stephanie Skernivitz Last updated on: May 26, 2011

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