Beginner V-Sit Postpartum Exercise
Pull a Jessica Alba and get your abs back in shape with this Pilates Move.
Submitted by
Kayla Chong
Kayla Chong
Feeling left out of all the Pilates talk? Get in on the game with this Pilates-inspired core-strengthening exercise. Skip the crazy gym fees and plop down on the floor.
- You
- Your baby
- Somewhere to sit
Sit on the ground with your knees bent, feet flat on the floor.
Let your baby straddle your lower belly, either sitting up or lying on her back at an angle on your thighs.
Put both hands near your waist for baby support if you need to. (you want a safe baby more than a strong stomach!)
Tighten your abdominals first, then lower your torso to about a 45° angle.
Raise your legs up so your shins are parallel to the ground and hold. To get a more intense workout, straighten the legs and hold the V-sit for a count of five.
Release and repeat.
Tell your friends (and Madonna) you have phenomenal core strength and an enviable V-sit.
- Do two sets of 10 seconds, three times per week.
- After two weeks, increase to two sets of 15 seconds.
- Every two weeks, add five more seconds.
- Toned bodies are great, but safety comes first! Practice this exercise without your baby so you can become familiar with the movement. At all times, please make sure that your baby is secure and his or her head is supported. If you have any concern or doubt about your or your baby's safety, please perform this exercise alone (or not at all!).
Submit!
