Hiatal Hernia and Weight Training

[DustyAZ]

Hello,

I have a question in regards to weight training and a suspicioned hiatal hernia.  (Hiatal hernias have a long history in my family that can be traced to my grandparents, both of my parents, and other relatives.)  Due to this, I want to take precaution with my exercise program.

I am a white male, 31 years old, 6'2", 178 lbs, fairly good shape, and I enjoy physical exercise.  However, lately, when I go to eat, I've been noticing that it feels like I have a very small lump behind the lower sternum when I swallow.  Recently, I've been noticing that I need to burp more frequently than usual and that I've been having a light burning sensation just above my stomach.  Sometimes, when I swallow, it can feel like the food has hit a small "speed bump" right before it hits the stomach.

Anyways, here's my question:  What exercises can I do to flatten my stomach without potentially creating the hiatal hernia (or if I have one), to make it worse?  Are stomach crunches acceptable?  I used to do situps.  Are these a complete no-no?

Any info would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you much,

Dusty
Arizona, USA
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[live4fitness]

From what I have been told doing strenuous things like weight loading leg press, squats. I don't know about ab exer.