Why have I developed a tummy after joining gym?

Q: I am a 41 years old female, 168 cm tall and weigh 55 kg. I joined a gym two weeks back and have observed that my stomach has actually started coming out. I look almost three months pregnant. Before joining the gym, I used to weigh 53 Kg and my stomach was much flatter. What has caused the tummy to bulge out?

A:Sometimes the abdominal crunches, if done incorrectly can cause it to protrude rather than to tighten. Please perform the exercise under the supervision of a trained professional. While you do the crunches, tighten the abdominal muscles and then lift your head and shoulders upwards and off the floor.