QUESTION:
Dear OPTI Staff:
I am a 45 year old mother of 3 daughters, aged 20, 22, and 24. I use to be very active prior to childbearing years. But have had a sedentary job for the past 20 years, and don't exercise on a regular basis. After my first child was born I recall the nurse saying my stomach wall split...my concern is even though I do stomach crunches, or try to exercise-nothing seems to tone these muscles. I am 5ft. 2in., 132lbs. Please reply.
Thank You,
'Stomach in need of help'ANSWER:
Before giving up on exercise as a method of improving muscular function and aesthetics, it would be a wise idea to see a qualified physician who could evaluate your abdominal structure for injury or damage.
Dependent on his findings, I would suggest that you contact a professional fitness consultant (one who has an educational and practical background in kinesiology and physiology). The professional would be able to work from the physician's findings to help prescribe the appropriate exercises to help you improve muscle tone and function.
It would be unprofessional and in poor judgment to suggest specific exercises or activities for you without an exact understanding of your medical condition and health status. After you physician diagnoses your condition, you and the fitness professional will have a more thorough and realistic idea of what the potential is for improvement.
Good luck and please let us know if we can be of further assistance.
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