Stomach muscles

[nubs]

Hi Zoe

After having 2 babies I have been left with gappy tummy muscles to the top of my stomach below my ribs
I can literally feel a gap of about an inch - is there any way of tightening these? If so how

My stomach muscle are not that strong as I have had 2 c-sections

Thanks in advance

[XxJack~AcexX]

Oh im keeping an eye on this thread. Hate my belly. However it was our bubbas home for a while x

[zobe1]

Good evening,
Thank you for your message.
When did you have your second c-section? How far apart were the 2 births?
You really need to focus on the core muscles. These include your deepest stomach muscles (like a corset) and pelvic floor. Strengthening these will help to draw in the more superficial muscles. The superficial ones are what we work when doing sit ups. Avoid sit ups for now, as this could cause more of a problem and doming of the stomach if they're not ready.
There is a way you can check the stomach muscles, feeling for the gap (which it sounds like you have), but doing it above and below the belly button as the gap can vary.
Do you do any core exercises at the moment?
I'm away from tomorrow, but if you can let me know what you're already doing at the moment, I can make some suggestions.
In the meantime spend a few minutes each day breathing deeply into the tummy (pop one hand on your chest and one on the stomach, and feel for minimal movement at the chest, but expansion in the tummy.
As you exhale, gently (that's important) draw your belly button in towards your spine. This is a good way to activate the core.
Think of it as homework for this week :-)
I look forward to hearing back from you
Zoe

[nubs]

My last section was in march 2009, and they were 2 and a half years apart

I have been doing cardio more than anything when I get to the gym, starting running too
Plus swimming. I will try the exercises you suggested. Thanks

[zobe1]

Hello,
How have you been getting on? Any change?
You say you go to the gym. Ask one of the trainers to go through some basic core exercises with you. They should do this free of charge. I would post exercises, but without seeing you do them, I am unable to check your technique and alignment, which are essential.
Please let me know how you're getting on.
Zoe

[nubs]

Hi Zoe,
I have started doing spinning classes for cardio, and kettle bell exercises from the fitness channel on sky - they explain what you should be doing and the muscles
I have been practising the exercises you said as I also had to do them when I had speech therapy.
I need to see the fitness instructor like you said - have been trying to see one each time I go to the gym but they are always occupied so I will try and book one with reception
Thanks Zoe