Hi - I know these machines probably aren't very popular on this forum, but I didn't know where else to ask this question. Does anyone know if it's OK to use those ab roller, "torso track" type machines while pregnant? I'm past my first trimester and don't want to do any improper ab work. I've read guidelines about not doing ab work flat on your back, but never anything about this type of device. Anyone have any pearls of wisdom about this "rolling forward" type of ab workout?
Ab Question - don't know who else to ask!
- Thread starter sln
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Cathe Friedrich
Administrator
Although there are no studies, that I am aware of, that say "don't use this piece of equipment when you are pregnant", my gut feeling is to say "no, don't use it". This type of exercise relies heavily on center core strength, not to mention balance, coordination and good form.
When you are pregnant, your center core structure alters a bit, which changes your center of gravity. This often effects your balance too. Plus, your bones become a bit softer during pregnancy (due to the hormone Relaxin), which also puts you at risk for this exercise. So my overall feeling for this exercise is that it is just a bit too risky and demanding on the vunerable joints and ligaments of a pregnant womans body.
Congratulations on your pregnancy
!
When you are pregnant, your center core structure alters a bit, which changes your center of gravity. This often effects your balance too. Plus, your bones become a bit softer during pregnancy (due to the hormone Relaxin), which also puts you at risk for this exercise. So my overall feeling for this exercise is that it is just a bit too risky and demanding on the vunerable joints and ligaments of a pregnant womans body.
Congratulations on your pregnancy
!Thanks, Cathe!
Thanks for the reply, I appreciate it. I think I'll pass on these devices. I'm not the world's most enthusiastic ab worker and I've had trouble reading about ab exercises to do while pregnant. The instructions always seem kind of complicated with all the inhaling, exhaling, contracting, quick pulses, etc. I think I might need a pregnancy video that helps talk me through ab work during pregnancy. Or maybe I should put abs on the back burner during the pregnancy.
Thanks for the reply, I appreciate it. I think I'll pass on these devices. I'm not the world's most enthusiastic ab worker and I've had trouble reading about ab exercises to do while pregnant. The instructions always seem kind of complicated with all the inhaling, exhaling, contracting, quick pulses, etc. I think I might need a pregnancy video that helps talk me through ab work during pregnancy. Or maybe I should put abs on the back burner during the pregnancy.
RE: Thanks, Cathe!
No I wouldn't put them on the back burner! I think strong abs make pushing easier (at least in my experience), will help keep your back strong during pregnancy, and help you to snap back. I really like the exercises in Birgitta (sp) Gallo's book "Expecting Fitness" because she does go into detail and shows a variety of moves, Sheila and Cathe have explained some here including the one where you are like a dog wagging your tail and believe me at 26 weeks along I certainly feel it! Anyway check out the book and see what you think, and the forum because I know there are some listed here
Stephanie
No I wouldn't put them on the back burner! I think strong abs make pushing easier (at least in my experience), will help keep your back strong during pregnancy, and help you to snap back. I really like the exercises in Birgitta (sp) Gallo's book "Expecting Fitness" because she does go into detail and shows a variety of moves, Sheila and Cathe have explained some here including the one where you are like a dog wagging your tail and believe me at 26 weeks along I certainly feel it! Anyway check out the book and see what you think, and the forum because I know there are some listed here
Stephanie