Ask the Personal Trainer

Joni Hyde is a Certified Personal Trainer and owner of WorkoutsForWomen.com

Lisa writes, "What is the cause and solution for that pain you sometimes get in your side when you exercise?"

Answer. Those painful cramps that you can get below your ribcage while exercising are called side stitches. The cause is usually shallow breathing. Accordingly, one of the most effective remedies for side stitches is simply to take very deep breaths so that your stomach expands each time you inhale.

If you're exercising outdoors in very cold weather it's often uncomfortable or even painful to breathe frigid air deep into the lungs. This can make side stitches more likely and also more difficult to resolve. If this is the case, then warm up indoors before heading outside to exercise. If your lungs are given a chance to warm up, they'll be better able to accommodate the cold air, and you'll be able to breathe more easily and more deeply.

Also see:
More about toning your abs
Exercises that target the lower abs
Reverse crunch to firm up abs

WorkoutsForWomen.com provides home exercise programs for today's busy women, under the guidance of a certified personal trainer.