A diastasis recti, or ab separation, is a condition in which the connective tissues between the two parallel bands of abdominal muscles are lengthened, resulting in a gap between the two parts of the rectus abdominis. A separation of 2 cm or less is considered within normal range. It is reported that by 35 weeks of pregnancy, 100% of women will incur some grade of diastasis recti. Therefore, it is not bad that you may have one. The concern comes when the tissue in that area cannot sustain control with exercise or activity. Some of the physical impairments it causes may lead to decreased stability and even physical pain in some cases; however, this will depend on the severity of your particular ab separation and the density of the fascia. In some individuals physical therapy and movement-based approaches can help lessen the symptoms of diastasis recti, while in other cases surgery may be appropriate. As always, if you have significant concerns or your diastasis recti is preventing you from doing the activities you want to do, it is safest to consult your doctor and/or physical therapist about the best course of treatment.