PURPOSE
The Standing Trunk Curve is an exercise specifically for pregnant or postpartum Soldiers.
This exercise safely challenges control of the muscles of the abdomen and pelvis.
It can be practiced through the third trimester and postpartum period by all Soldiers.
The Figures above and below show a breakdown of the exercise as a Soldier moving at her own pace conducts it.
CADENCE
Own pace
STARTING POSITION
The starting position is the Straddle stance position with hands on hips.
COUNT
● From the starting position, raise the arms up and out from the shoulders at 45 degrees while taking a deep breath in.
Simultaneously draw the waistline in and up.
Exhale but hold the curve in the abdomen created by this procedure.
● Relax and return to the starting position.
MODIFICATIONS
To modify the Standing Trunk Curve:
● Increase difficulty by taking a second inhalation, drawing the abdomen further in and staying tall in the spine and upper chest.
● Decrease difficulty by performing it in a Sitting position with hands on knees and elbows out.
● Take a few normal breaths between repetitions.
REPETITIONS
● Repeat this exercise up to 10 times at own pace.