Crunches Are Canceled: What to Do Instead for a Stronger Core Postpartum
Let’s just say it: if postpartum recovery had a blooper reel, crunches would be the star.
We get it. You want to feel strong again. You want your core back. And somewhere along the way, someone probably told you to "just start doing some crunches." Spoiler alert: they were wrong.
Mama, your body just performed a miracle. Whether you had a vaginal delivery or a C-section, your core (and pelvic floor) went through major changes. So if you've been wondering why your abs feel like Jell-O and crunches feel... off? You're not broken. You're just in a season that needs a different approach.
Let’s talk about why crunches are canceled and what you should do instead to rebuild from the inside out.
Why Crunches Are Not It After Baby
Crunches focus on the outermost abdominal muscles (the rectus abdominis), aka the "six-pack." But here’s the thing: postpartum recovery is all about the deep core, especially the transverse abdominis (your body’s natural corset) and pelvic floor. These are the muscles that provide stability, support your organs, and keep everything working smoothly.
When you do crunches too soon (or without proper core engagement), you risk:
- Worsening or causing
diastasis recti (ab separation)
- Increasing
intra-abdominal pressure, which can stress your pelvic floor
- Experiencing coning or doming in your belly
- Delaying healing and creating dysfunction down the line
The goal right now? Build a functional, supportive core that helps you carry your baby, chase your toddler, and get out of bed without pain.
So What Should You Do?
Here’s what we teach every mama inside the ABC Fit Virtual Gym: strong cores are built from the ABC Method - Alignment, Breath, and Core.
1. ALIGNMENT
Your posture matters more than you think. When your ribs are flared or your pelvis is tilted, your core muscles can’t fire properly. We teach you how to stack your ribcage over your pelvis and move in a way that supports healing, not hinders it.
2. BREATH
Yep, breathing is a workout. Learning how to connect breath to movement is the secret sauce to activating your deep core and pelvic floor. Diaphragmatic breathing, 360 breathing, and intentional exhales during exertion? Total game-changers.
3. CORE (Deep Core, That Is)
Think slow, controlled, purposeful movements. We focus on TVA engagement, pelvic floor lifts, and core integration in everything you do - whether you're lying on a mat or picking up a laundry basket. The best part? It works, even in short, nap-time-friendly sessions.
5 Core-Smart Moves to Try Instead of Crunches
Here are five ABC Fit-approved movements that are safe, effective, and postpartum-friendly (but always check with your provider before starting anything new):
1. 360 Breathing with Core Engagement
Start here. This breathwork re-establishes your brain-body connection and gently wakes up your deep core.
2. Heel Slides
Great for reconnecting your core and lower body. The key is controlling the movement while maintaining proper alignment.
3. Glute Bridges with Exhale
Strengthens your glutes
and engages your pelvic floor. Exhale as you lift, inhale as you lower.
4. Bird-Dog (Modified if Needed)
A total-body move that works on stability, coordination, and core control.
5. Dead Bug (with a towel or resistance band)
Progressive core work that trains coordination and deep core activation without unnecessary strain.
Inside the Virtual Gym, we guide you through these moves (and more) with cues, modifications, and support at every stage. Whether you're six weeks or six months postpartum, you don't have to figure this out alone.
The Bottom Line
Crunches might be canceled, but your strength is not.
Postpartum is not about bouncing back. It’s about building forward - and that starts at your core. With the right support, smart movement, and a community that gets it, you can feel strong, stable, and more like you again.
If you’re ready to rebuild from the inside out, join us in the ABC Fit Virtual Gym. Our Core Restore program is designed to guide you step-by-step through breathwork, core activation, and functional movement that meets you exactly where you are.
Your strength didn’t disappear. It just needs a smarter strategy.
Come get strong as a mother.











