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Have Baby, Still Exercise
5 Fitness Solutions
for the First Year of Life By Aneema Van Groenou, M.D.
Lots of Healthy Options Stroller Fitness:
Running
Jogging
Urban walking
Inline skating
Bike Fitness:
Road biking
Off-road biking (park service roads)
Water Fitness:
Water aerobics
Baby swim classes
Backpack Fitness:
Hiking
Camping
Fishing
Cross-country skiing
Mall Fitness:
Yoga
Pilates
Stretching
3. Water FunBabies love water probably because they emerge from the watery uterus and are born with a "dive reflex" that helps them hold their breath underwater (it is automatic until about 6 months of age). Warm water is comfortable, and supported paddling is good exercise for the little one (some babies even learn to swim before they crawl!). Baby and Mom/Dad swim classes are a terrific way to encourage your child to explore the environment.
for the First Year of Life
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Water aerobics is a good low-impact workout for you, too, as the water offers resistance without straining your joints. Water exercise also helps tone pelvic floor muscles (the muscles that control the flow of urine) to prevent long-term problems with incontinence (leakig urine), improves circulation and prevents varicose veins.