Fit Minute: Pre-Natal Fitness & Core Workout

Pre-natal fitness expert Leah Keller joined us on The Couch to show us how to engage and work our core during pregnancy. But you don't have to be pregnant to get something out of this workout.

Core Compressions

Sit upright, either on the floor with your legs crossed or on a chair with your feet flat on the ground. Keep the spine lengthened and perfectly still. Rest both hands on your belly, upper and lower.

Exhale as you tighten your abdominal muscles toward the spine. Repeatedly pulse the abdominal muscles tight to tighter, tight to tighter, exhaling with each slow and controlled squeeze. Close your eyes, and envision hugging your baby to the spine with each exhalation. This is a deep, subtle movement - yet powerfully effective.

Start with 5 minutes a day. After one week, work up to 10 minutes a day (either 10 minutes all at once or 5 minutes twice a day). You are powerfully strengthening your core to keep you and your baby safe during pregnancy, labor with strength and bounce back fast.

Links: prenatal highlights reel and the 3-d science animation.