[Submitted Question]

Usually, I do sit-ups to strengthen my abs. Now I have heard that sit-ups are not recommended during pregnancy. I am currently 9 weeks pregnant. Are there exercises other than sit-ups that will help keep my abs in shape?

[WombToBloom]

The problem in pregnancy is that you shouldn’t lie down on your back when you exercise because it pinches off the circulation to the uterus. This problem doesn’t usually occur until the middle of the second trimester. You can use abdominal machines at the club that tense your abdominal muscles without having you lie down. Early in the first and second trimesters, however, should be fine to do sit ups.