Exercises to Relieve Tummy Aches in Babies Due to Gas

You’ve fed your baby, changed him, rocked him in a cradle… and he’s still crying?
Chances are, it’s not you - it’s gas inside the baby's tummy. Babies have developing digestive systems and can’t always pass gas on their own. It can lead to discomfort and long crying sessions.

We’ve put together a step-by-step guide of gentle, easy exercises that can help your baby pass gas, relieve tummy aches, and feel better in no time. No need to worry even if you are a new parent as these moves can be done at home, no equipment needed—just a soft surface  and your loving hands.

Why Do Babies Get Gassy?

Newborns and infants get gassy for a number of completely normal reasons. 

WATCHOUT: If your baby is frequently fussy or pulling their legs up to their tummy, gas could be the reason. 

• Swallowing air while feeding: Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, babies often swallow tiny air bubbles, especially if they’re latching improperly or feeding too quickly.
• Persistent crying: Ironically, crying itself can cause more gas. When babies cry, they gulp in more air, which can get trapped in the tummy.
• Immature digestive system: Babies are still developing their gut. Their digestive systems are learning how to break down milk, and sometimes this process creates extra gas.
• Formula sensitivity or Diet changes: For formula-fed babies, certain ingredients might not suit their developing digestive system. Even breastfeeding moms’ diets can sometimes affect the baby’s digestion.
• Lying Flat for Long Periods: Babies spend a lot of time lying down, which makes it harder for gas to move around and get released.
• Lack of Burping: Not burping your baby regularly during and after feeds can lead to trapped air bubbles in their stomach.

Exercises You Can Perform to Relieve Baby’s Tummy Ache

Massage is one of the gentlest ways to help move gas through your baby’s intestines.

1. Up and Down Repeat

• Lay baby down on a soft and flat surface
• Rub your hands together to warm them (mother) 
• Stroke up and down gently and move both hands from the baby’s lower tummy to the chest 

2.  Tummy Circles

• Lay baby down on a soft and flat surface
• Rub your hands together to warm them (mother) 
• Place your hands on the belly area of the baby. 
• Gently massage your baby's tummy in a clockwise motion using your both hands, starting at the navel and moving outward.

3. Knee Chest Movement

• Lay baby down on a soft and flat surface
• Hold both legs near the knees
• Gently bend both of the knees and carefully press it towards the baby's chest Hold for a few seconds & lower them back to the starting position 

4. Leg Cycling Exercise

• Lay baby down on a soft and flat surface
• Hold the baby's legs at their ankles and gently grasp the baby's feet.
• Move legs in a  circular, bicycle-pedaling motion and push one leg toward the chest, while stretching the other out.

5. Leg Rotation Exercise

• Lay baby down on a soft and flat surface
• Hold baby’s legs gently near the knees and push towards the tummy
• Move and rotate both legs in a circular motion from outward to inward.

6. Criss - Cross Exercise

• Lay baby down on a soft and flat surface
• Hold baby’s one hand & opposite knee and gently bring them together
• Switch sides and repeat with the other hand and knee

Quick Tips to Keep in Mind Throughout All the Exercises

• Wait 30–40 mins after feeding before starting exercises to prevent spit-ups
• Repeat exercises for at least 5–10 minutes or until baby settles
• Always use gentle pressure—never force movements
• Stay calm and talk or sing—your voice is soothing
• If crying continues for more than 15 minutes or baby seems in pain, stop and consult your pediatrician

Bonus Tip for Parents: You’re Doing Great

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when your baby cries and you’re not sure what’s wrong. Just know that gas amongst babies is very common, and with patience, some loving touch, and a little movement, you can make a big difference.

Even if the first try doesn’t bring instant relief, keep going - these movements not only help with gas, but also support bonding, digestion, and motor development in babies.