How should I do the forward-bend stretch exercise during pregnancy?

To do forward-bend stretches during pregnancy, sit in a chair or on an exercise ball. Scoot to the edge and bend forward to stretch your lower back. Walk your hands down your legs to support your trunk. Stop if you feel any pain. Flex forward to the point where you can feel a pain-free stretch. You may have to scoot your legs out a little to accommodate your tummy. This should feel really good if you have extension problems (movement dysfunction wherein the spine is unable to flex adequately or the abdominals cannot stabilize the spine's extension). Many people experience pain when returning from the flexed position; if you feel pain, walk your hands up your legs to help return your trunk to an upright position.

While coming back up, draw your belly button in toward your spine; maintain the lumbar flexion (flexed joint position) as long as possible. This maneuver is also called "hollowing out" your stomach. This exercise can also be done standing.