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Have Baby, Still Exercise
5 Fitness Solutions
for the First Year of Life By Aneema Van Groenou, M.D.
4. Grab the BackpackDon't hesitate to head into the wilderness with your baby. The birds, butterflies and sounds of the forest are a rich experience for an infant. Baby carriers are designed for comfort for parent and child. As you build your stamina, you'll be able to enjoy long hikes, camping trips and even a backpacking excursion, if you're up for it.
for the First Year of Life
Heading into the backcountry or even into the neighborhood park system on a trail relieves stress and takes you away from it all. It's also a healthy way to spend time with your loved ones, catch up on conversation and reaffirm the relationships that support you.
Keep in mind that depression is common after delivery. Having a strong support network, getting out of the house and doing things you truly enjoy are key to preventing mood swings. Regular exercise which may allow your mind to get that perspective and your body to release those feel-good endorphins has been shown to improve mood as well.
Holding Baby through a range of stretching and toning activities pushes your body a little further, and that cute face helps the hour fly by. And you can do these basic exercises at home, too:
Chest presses: Lying on your back, hold your baby straight in front of you and gently lower down with your elbows pointing out to the sides. Push out and repeat 10 times. Complete three sets of 10 repetitions.
Abdominal curls: Lie on your back with your baby sitting on your stomach with your knees bent. Contract your abdominals and lift your shoulders and head off the ground. Keep your spine and neck in line and contract your belly to lift your upper body. Hold for a count of five seconds, then release your head and shoulders back to the ground. Repeat 10 times. Complete two sets of 10 repetitions.
