What to do if you can't do ab workouts. If you are unable to do ab workouts for some reason I would recommend using a Electronic Muscle Stimulation. As an extra precaution after having my last baby, before I was ready to start working out I started using the Slendertone Belt. Slendertone uses Electronic Muscle Stimulation (EMS) technology to create strong, deep, comfortable contractions in your muscles. It mimics the body's natural muscle movements; signals are sent between the pads, engaging the nerves that control your muscles and causing them to contract naturally.  I can't say I saw dramatic results but it did accomplish what I needed. It strengthened by ab muscles enough for me to feel comfortable doing ab exercises.