Former Rhythmic Gymnast Son Yeon-jae Shares Post-Pregnancy Fitness Journey

Former national rhythmic gymnast Son Yeon-jae has opened up about the challenges she faced with her body after pregnancy and childbirth.

On the 16th, Son Yeon-jae's YouTube channel released a video titled 'Son Yeon-jae's 10-Minute Postpartum Belly Recovery Routine (Beginner).' In the video, Son visits her rhythmic gymnastics studio to discuss the changes in her body due to pregnancy and childbirth, and shares her stretching routine.

Son candidly revealed, "(Pregnancy and childbirth) cause the pelvis to widen. It doesn't just go back to normal on its own." She added, "These days, as I focus on childcare and neglect exercise, my posture worsens as I look at my phone more. This affects how clothes fit and can lead to a forward head posture because my armpits get too tense."

Despite being a former athlete, Son noted, "It's been 10 years since I retired, so I'm just like everyone else," as she introduced a simple core recovery routine using a foam roller. She advised, "Since the pelvis is loose, applying too much force or weight can be difficult. I recommend exercising with a professional during pregnancy," and shared, "When I was pregnant, I exercised by placing my belly on a round cushion."

Son Yeon-jae married a financier nine years her senior in 2022 and welcomed their son, Jun-yeon.

Reporter Soo-min Lee, Ten Asia danbilee19@tenasia.co.kr