Pregnancy is an incredible journey, but it can bring unexpected aches and strains—especially in your core. Engaging your core during pregnancy can make a huge difference, providing support and reducing discomfort. But how do you know when it’s time to focus on core engagement? If you’re experiencing low back pain, feeling the need to hold up your belly, or noticing that your belly sits lower than your pubic bone, your body may be telling you it’s time to strengthen your core. Let’s dive into these signs and how they relate to core engagement.
Why Engaging Your Core During Pregnancy Matters
As your belly grows, your core muscles, including the deep stabilizers, take on extra responsibility to support the weight and keep you comfortable. When these muscles aren’t actively supporting your body, it can lead to imbalances and strains, especially in the lower back and abdomen. Engaging your core during pregnancy helps maintain stability, supports your posture, and can even ease discomfort.
3 Key Signs You Should Start Engaging Your Core During Pregnancy
- Low Back Pain
If you’re experiencing persistent low back pain, it’s a common sign that your core could use a bit more support. During pregnancy, the extra weight and changes in posture can put additional strain on your back. Strengthening your core can provide stability to the lower back, reducing pain and helping you feel more comfortable. - Feeling the Need to Hold Up Your Belly
Do you find yourself holding up your belly throughout the day? This could be a signal that your body is looking for extra support. Core engagement provides gentle lift and stability, so you don’t have to rely on your hands. By engaging your core, you can support your belly naturally, easing the urge to physically hold it up. - Belly Resting Lower Than the Pubic Bone
If you’ve noticed that your belly seems to be sitting lower than your pubic bone, it might indicate that the core isn’t fully supporting your belly. When your core muscles are engaged, they help to lift and stabilize, ensuring that your growing belly doesn’t place too much strain on other areas of your body.
How to Safely Start Engaging Your Core During Pregnancy
It’s important to engage your core gently and safely during pregnancy. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Focus on Breath and Alignment: Start by breathing deeply, and think about gently drawing in your lower abdomen as you exhale. This encourages a gentle lift without intense strain.
- Avoid Over-Gripping: Your goal isn’t to tighten or clench your core but to create a feeling of light support.
- Try Simple Core Exercises: Incorporate pregnancy-safe exercises that focus on stability, like pelvic tilts or gentle belly breathing. These moves help you connect with your core muscles without placing unnecessary stress on them.
Additional Support for Your Core
If you’re looking to learn more, check out our on-demand classes that will help you engage your core and tighten your pelvic floor muscles. With the right guidance, you’ll find core engagement is both manageable and beneficial for your comfort and well-being throughout pregnancy.
Pregnancy should be a time of empowerment and confidence in your body’s strength. By listening to these signs and starting to engage your core, you’ll support yourself in a way that makes a positive difference. Remember, engaging your core during pregnancy isn’t about doing crunches or intense ab work; it’s about gentle support that helps you feel strong, comfortable, and ready for each new day.
