Pre/Post Natal Fitness

Exercises for Mom and Baby

iStock_000001810952XSmall
If you’re a new mom, you probably know that getting exercise can be tough. Taking care of a baby can take up a lot of your energy. It’s often difficult to find someone to watch the baby while you go to the gym or you may not want to leave the baby with someone yet. To stay healthy and take off those extra pounds, try incorporating your baby into your workout routine. This way, baby can be entertained and you can work up a sweat. Plus, once you’re used to it, exercise can give you a great energy boost to get through your long day. Here are some great exercises to try today:

Walking
There are some great multi-terrain strollers that you can use for walks with your baby. You can also buy a sling and go for walks with your baby. This will make your baby easier to tote around with you. Plus a great walk can be a great way to stimulate your baby with new sights, sounds and smells.

Running and Biking
Instead of buying expensive workout equipment, why not check out the specialized strollers the next time you’re at a sport supply store? They make devices specifically for running and biking safely with your child. And like walking, this also exposes your baby to new stimuli.

Move, Shake, and Dance with your Baby
Next time your baby is crying, instead of jiggling and rocking them, try putting them in a sling and dancing with them. If this doesn’t work to quiet them, you can still do it when they’re happy.

Take a Class

Take a look online or at a local gym. You can probably find a class in your area designed to give you and your baby a workout at the same time. If you’re serious about getting in shape with your baby, find a personal trainer who’s also a mom, or who specializes in pre/post natal fitness. She’ll be able to give you exercises you can not only do with your baby, but also exercises that are tailored specifically to you.

Working out with your baby can not only get you back into shape, it can also give your baby the stimulation they need to lead an active, healthy life. Just remember to be safe and always make sure your baby is secure.
|