It’s time to shift gears now with the holidays behind us. New Year’s Resolution goals are in full swing and for most, fitness goals are at the top of the list. Likely, many begin to falter after February or March and eventually stop their workout routine. New moms finding time to exercise is especially difficult with a little one at your side, so why not incorporate your baby into your routine? Taking little steps will lead you in the right direction for success. Not only will you get back in shape, but you will create a one-on-one bonding experience between you and your baby.
These four quick and easy “Mommy and Baby” exercises can help jump start your metabolism and keep you motivated to continue working out the rest of the year.
As always, when starting any new exercise program, make sure to consult with your physician.
1. Planks: targets core abdominals and upper back
– Start on all fours, with forearms and toes on floor
– Place baby on back making direct eye contact with you
– Tighten your abs and draw your belly button into your spine
– Keep body in one straight line
– Hold fifteen seconds, repeat, work up to two minutes
2. Crunches: targets abdominals
– Lie on your back, knees bent, feet flat on floor
– Place baby on lap facing you with head/back resting on thighs
– Slowly roll back to feel abs contract and hold
– Repeat ten times
3. Plie Squats: targets gluts and quads
– Place baby on back facing you
– Stand with feet facing outward a little wider than shoulder width apart
– Knees directly over toes and abs tight
– Slowly lower your body, hold, and return back up to starting
– Repeat eight to ten times for one set
4. Push Ups: targets chest, arms and shoulders
– Place baby on back facing you
– Palms and knees on the floor; arms open wide to approximately shoulder width apart
– Bend arms to lower chest towards the floor making eye contact with baby
– Straighten arms to return to start position
– Repeat eight to ten times for one set
By Lillian Lee. Lillian Lee is the local franchise owner for Baby Boot Camp, serving families in Alamo, Danville, Dublin, Pleasanton and San Ramon, certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor. Contact lillian.lee@babybootcamp.com or call 925-353-6193 for more info, or visit www.babybootcamp.com.