How a strong "core" helps you during pregnancy!

First let us explore the“Core.” The dictionary defines a core as the “central, basic, or most important part” of something. And our bodies have a “core” as well.


The core includes:

The abdominal muscles from your chest down to your pelvis,

Your obliques (the abs on the side of your body),

Your glute (or butt) muscles,

And the lower and middle part of your back.

Your expanding abdomen, swelling breasts, and increased blood volume causes lordosis (excessive arching) of the lumbar (lower)spine, and kyphosis (rounding) of the thoracic (upper) spine. Each of these changes has a major impact on low back pain, mid-back pain, and headaches. Unfortunately this doesn’t necessarily go away after you give birth. Often post natal women deal with these problems and don’t even know it, except for their back hurts most of the time. However, the good news is this doesn’t have to happen!! These CAN be lessened or completely avoided by strengthening your core, practicing good posture, and corrective stretching! By pulling in and working the core you will ensure that the excessive arching of the lumbar spine won’t happen, and the rounding of your thoracic spine can be eliminated too. Remember, doing the core exercises in my workouts is good and adding a little awareness and practice during the day won’t hurt either. If your lower back starts to ache, sit up straight and pull in your lower abdominals. It should help with the pain, if not eliminate if completely. While your walking, keep your posture up and lower abdominals pulled in slightly. You’ll be working your core and ensuring your body holds up to the pressures of pregnancy much better!