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32 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • Winter 2019 ages & stages WRITTEN BY SARAH LYONS A new baby brings a lot of joy and changes to a household. Active mothers often feel like their schedule and priorities revolve around their new child which makes it difficult to get to the gym. This doesn't mean that mom has to give up her workouts altogether. It's simple to add exercise to the time you already spend playing with your baby. It is never easy to get back in shape but that doesn't mean it can't be fun. By incorporating your baby into the workouts, you will not only spend quality time together, but you will be burning calories and making yourself a priority. Exercise with Mommy & Me Get Rolling Use your stroller to go for a walk or jog in your neighborhood or at a park. You and baby are sure to enjoy the fresh air while you get some exercise. Consider having a mom friend meet you to walk and talk, or create a group for more fun. Tummy Time Stretch out on the floor with baby while you both work on your tummy muscles. Baby is sure to enjoy having mommy at eye level while you work on your abs. Lay on your back, bend your knees and lift your feet off the floor. You can lay baby on your shins and slowly move your knees from your chest back to starting position. You can also do crunches and planks while baby lays next to you. Baby Press Who needs the free weights when you can simply play with your baby and get the same type of workout? Lay on the floor with baby on your chest or stomach. Lift baby under arms into air and move up and down. You can also try standing and lifting baby from chest height over your head and repeat. Baby Bends For this exercise you can hold baby against your chest or use a wrap or baby carrier to keep the baby secure. Stand with feet apart and squat slowly several times. You can also try walking lunges. These are challenging for you and fun for baby. Silly Stretch Stretching is important to keep the body healthy and strong, especially after a workout. Get creative while stretching and use it as a time to interact with baby. Lay baby on the floor while you touch your toes. Sing a song or recite a nursery rhyme while you hold the stretch. Make it fun for you and your baby. Dance it Off One of the best ways to sneak in a cardio workout is to turn up the music and dance. You will burn calories without even noticing. Kids of any age will love to join in while you turn your living room into a dance floor.