08/09/2026
Abdominal separation isn't something you need to fear — and rehab isn't about finding one magical exercise.
I saw the anonymous post on a local Facebook group, and what struck me wasn't that she asked the question.
Of course she did.
When you're hearing “don't do crunches”, “activate your TA”, “close the gap”, “never brace” and “strengthen your core” from different sources everywhere, of course you're going to be confused!!!
What really struck me was that she'd already seen a physio.
She'd had an individual assessment and been given advice, but was still wondering whether that advice was right.
And honestly, I don't blame her.
This space is confusing.
So I wanted to take the conversation back to the research.
The current evidence is nuanced, but some things are becoming clearer:
→ There isn't one perfect exercise program for everyone.
→ Abdominal loading isn't something we need to automatically fear or avoid.
→ Transversus abdominis activation isn't the whole answer.
→ A smaller gap doesn't automatically mean better function.
→ And yes, exercise can reduce inter-rectus distance.
But closing the gap is only part of the story.
We also want to build strength, capacity, confidence and tolerance to the things you actually want to do.
Running. Lifting. Sport. Pilates. Picking up your baby. Getting off the floor. Or simply moving through everyday life without constantly wondering if you're doing something wrong.
The goal isn't to make every abdomen look or measure the same.
It's to help you feel strong and capable in your body.
Nothing beats individual assessment — but women also deserve education and ongoing support so they understand what they're doing, why they're doing it, and how to progress.
Because if women are still asking Facebook whether their physio gave them bad advice…
we can do better.
That's a big part of what Motherhood in Motion is about.
Move. Learn. Connect.
An 8-week postpartum program to help you rebuild strength, confidence and capacity without fear-based rules.
Join the waitlist via the link in my bio. 🤍