OH! I looked up the bridge exercise. That is not usually something for someone
starting out.

Yes, recumbent bikes are usually o.k.


Physically therapists can help but they can just as easily make things worse.
One orthopedist I saw said he would not send me to a physical therapist.


Perhaps you can find a few moves that would help your abs -- I would not
make any suggestions except that perhaps doing
movements that help you and that are comfortable.