Pregnancy comes with a lot of questions, like what foods are safe to eat and whether it’s okay to do ab workouts. While it may seem counterintuitive, core exercises are actually important during pregnancy to reduce back pain, prepare for labor, and speed up postpartum recovery. Kim Perry, a pre- and postnatal certified trainer, suggests focusing on deep core muscles like the transverse abdominis to improve posture and prevent issues like diastasis recti. Research shows that core stability exercises can relieve pain and improve quality of life for pregnant individuals. Here are six core exercises recommended for pregnancy, along with three to avoid. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any exercise routine during pregnancy.