This topic is about finding safe and effective abdominal exercises and core-strengthening options for people with an ostomy. An ostomy patient, who is two years post-surgery and currently free of hernias, is looking to tone their midsection. They are curious about traditional exercises like sit-ups and leg raises, as well as using their Chuck Norris Total Gym. They have a supportive hernia belt but are unsure if these exercises might harm their stoma or lead to a hernia. They are seeking advice and experiences from others who have been in similar situations.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. **Get individual clearance first**
- It's important to consult with a physiotherapist knowledgeable about stomas, a general practitioner, or a specialist in pelvic-floor or abdominal rehab before starting any core exercise program. This is because the type of surgery, healing status, and risk of prolapse can vary from person to person.

2. **Timing matters**
- If your surgery was less than three months ago or if you already have a hernia, it's best to avoid full abdominal workouts. Start only after you have adequately healed.

3. **Start very gently and progress slowly**
- Begin with basic, ostomy-specific core routines available online or through programs like ConvaTec’s free “me+ Recovery Series.” Early on, try simple post-surgery moves and single-leg raises.

4. **Sit-ups: mixed views**
- Some people and ostomy nurses advise against full sit-ups due to the high intra-abdominal pressure they create. Others have had success with modified, bent-knee "lazy sit-ups," done in small sets and gradually increased.

5. **Planks and alternatives**
- Some long-term ostomates, including a 20-year ileostomate weightlifter, safely perform planks and squats after building baseline strength slowly. However, others are advised by nurses to avoid planks entirely. Progression and proper technique are crucial.

6. **Leg raises**
- These are acceptable if performed one leg at a time to limit strain.

7. **Structured classes & videos**
- The Ostomy Studio, run by clinical Pilates teacher Sarah Russell, offers live and recorded sessions that progress from post-op basics to advanced core work. Stealth Belt’s Collin Jarvis video demonstrates 10 hernia-prevention core exercises helpful for beginners.

8. **Support garments**
- There is mixed evidence on whether hernia belts actually prevent hernias, as they don’t replace the muscle wall. Some find standard belts insufficient and prefer a support vest from Vanilla Blush. Belts are seen more as confidence and support aids than proven protective devices.

9. **General workout tips**
- Progress slowly and easily; enthusiasm can sometimes outpace healing. Incorporate total-core moves like squats for overall strength. Avoid heavy lifting or high-strain moves until you are well-conditioned.

10. **Key products and brands mentioned**
- Chuck Norris Total Gym (home gym equipment)
- ConvaTec “me+ Recovery Series” (free ostomy exercise program)
- Vanilla Blush support vest
- Stealth Belt (hernia-support belts & exercise videos)
- The Ostomy Studio online Pilates classes