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Abdominal Training
Keep Your Core Toned during Pregnancy
By Kelly Burgess
With this simple exercise, which can be done lying on your side, you merely tense or contract the muscles as though you're trying to brace for a punch to the abdomen. Hold for five to 10 seconds or as long as you can comfortably do so, then relax for 10 seconds and repeat for six repetitions (up to two minutes). Build to five minutes at a time. Breathe normally throughout. 
Side Lying Obliques
This version of obliques is done lying on your side, which makes them ideal for late pregnancy and early postpartum exercises. Lie on your side with your head resting on your upper arm and spine in alignment. Exhale and raise your top leg first, to be sure you're comfortable doing so, and then on the next repetition, lift both legs at the same time if you can. Inhale as you lower your legs. Control the movement and try not to press too hard with your hand into the floor. You'll feel your oblique muscles and the abductors (along the outer thigh of the top leg) contract to lift your legs. Perform 10 to 12 repetitions on each side for one to three sets. While these are all extremely safe exercises, discontinue any exercise if there is any discomfort and check with your doctor before continuing.