ab exercises?

[logansmom04]

Good afternoon everyone. I have a question and if someone could help me, I would be very greatful.

I have lost about 27 pounds so far since the end of May. I had a very big "mommy" belly before as I gained alot of weight 3 years ago with my son. Well, not that I have lost some weight, the belly looks worse. I don't think it's getting smaller at all!

I can tell a difference in my rear and thighs, but not the stomach area. My question is this: What exercises can I do to get it to go away or least shrink some?

I already do 45 minutes of cardio 4 to 5 days a week. I CANNOT do sit-ups due to compression fractures in my spine, so the usual exercises may be out of the question.

Can someone help me? Thanks!

[ValidRouge]

Re: ab exercises?

Do a Google search on the words "core exercises" and look around. There are lots of exercises for strengthening your core (abs, back, etc.) without having to do crunches.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/core-strength/SM00047

http://www.sport-fitness-advisor.com...-training.html

Also ask your doctor. I'm sure they'd love to hear you that you want to do some exercise like this. As you build core strength, it will put less stress on your spine.

[LooseShoes]

Re: ab exercises?

You might also just try pulling in your "mommy belly" until you really feel it and hold it for as long as you can. Do it as many times as you can and try to do more every day or so. I'm sorry about your back, I'm sure doing as Valid Rouge said and asking your doctor would be a good idea. I'd hate for you to do something that made it worse.

[JohnNY23]

Re: ab exercises?

I have a bad back too, and im only 23... herniated disks, buldged disks, sciatica... etc. I learned in physical therepy that part of keeping my back in good shape is keeping my stomach muscles in good shape. But... sit-ups and crunches are bad for the back like you said. A good stomach exercise is called the "plank". it keeps your back straight and works your stomach. go to this site... http://exercise.about.com/od/abs/ss/abexercises_10.htm ... if you hold that position for like 30 - 60 seconds (that might be too long at first, maybe try 15 secs?) and concentrate on tightening your stomach and keeping your back straight like a "plank" you will feel it burn. do like 3 - 4 reps... its a good exercise