Why pregnant women should train their core—and the exercises to do this safely

A pregnant woman performs glute bridge on an exercise mat. She is on her back, with her shoulders and feet against the floor, knees bent and butt elevated in the air. Behind her we see a TV, shelving and a leafy plant.

Your core muscles support your spine, help with balance and stability and allow your body to move effectively.

These muscles undergo a lot of changes when you’re pregnant because of your expanding stomach, which means certain exercises are off the table.