Nine Months On, Nine Months Off:
Safe, Month-by-Month Tips to Tackle the Baby Bulge page 2
by Lisa Druxman, M.A., founder of Stroller Strides
MONTH FOUR: Use Baby as Your Barbell
Maximize your workout and your time with baby by using your little one as a weight. Using a front pack baby carrier, engage in squats, lunges, and plies; rest baby on your middle for abdominal-strengthening hip bridges; or lift baby in the air for chest presses.
MONTH FIVE: Nourish Yourself Like You Would Your Baby
Even if you’re not nursing, continue to eat as if your food fuels your baby. Chances are you’ll make better choices for your child than you would for yourself. Remember to include lots of whole foods, fruits, and vegetables in your diet.
MONTH SIX: Start Your Stroller Workout
Get fit with your baby, the stroller, and a supportive new group of friends by joining a group stroller exercise class like Stroller Strides. Outside of class, take baby on a rigorous walk that includes hills and varying speed intervals. Make sure you are focused on good posture while pushing your pram.
MONTH SEVEN: Make Time for Meal Breaks
Make sure that you are eating enough to sustain your activity. Instead of a few large meals, try eating five or six mini-meals throughout the day.
MONTH EIGHT: Keep Your Fitness Consistency in Check
You should be participating in some type of physical activity most days of the week. Remember that your workout doesn’t have to be traditional in order for it to count – some quick crunches with baby qualify!
MONTH NINE: Remember Your Role Model Status
Your motivation to be a fit mom is admirable, but remember that being a great mom and a role model come first. Show your little one that your goal is health and wellness and not just a size or number on the scale. Celebrate all of the joys of being a new mom – even if it means some new curves.
About The AuthorLisa Druxman, M.A., is the founder of Stroller Strides, the largest fitness program for new moms in the United States. She created the weight management program, L.E.A.N. Mommy (Learn Eating Awareness and Nutrition), which was released as a book by Hachette Publishing in 2007.*
A noted authority on prenatal and postnatal fitness, Lisa is certified as an instructor, personal trainer, and provider of Continuing Education through the American Council on Exercise (ACE). Druxman sits on the board of the Postpartum Health Alliance and was the recipient of the 2007 Program Director of the Year award. She has received business awards from organizations such as the National Association of Women Business Owners for her unique and successful business.
Druxman relishes the Stroller Strides mission statement, "Helping moms make strides in fitness, motherhood, and life." She lives in San Diego with her husband, young son, and newborn daughter.
