Stroller Fitness

With autumn approaching and the temperatures becoming more comfortable, it’s the perfect season to revitalize your fitness routine. Stroller fitness is a wonderful way to bond with your baby, soak up some nature, and stay active all at the same time. Here’s a guide to help you transform your daily walks into purposeful workout sessions without compromising quality time with your little one.

Why Stroller Fitness?
Bonding Time: Exercise with your child rather than trying to find a separate time to work out.
Convenience: No need for a babysitter while you hit the gym.
Fresh Air: Both you and your baby get to enjoy the outdoors.
Full Body Workout: Most routines engage various muscle groups for a well-rounded fitness session.

Gear You'll Need
Stroller: Opt for a sturdy, all-terrain jogging stroller for the best experience.
Comfortable Attire: Wear breathable, stretchy clothes and a good pair of athletic shoes.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated; some strollers come with cup holders.
Snacks: For you and baby—keeping energy up is crucial!
Sunscreen: Even though it’s cooling down, sun protection is still essential.

Warm-Up: Stroller Walk (5 minutes)
Start with a 5-minute leisurely walk to get your body warmed up and ready for more intense activity. This is a good time to assess how your baby is doing—if they’re calm and enjoying the ride, you’re good to go for the more intense parts of your workout.

Stroller Fitness Routine
1. Stroller Lunges (3 sets of 10 reps)
How to do it: Stand behind your stroller, both hands on the handlebar. Take a large step forward, lowering your hips until both knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle. Push back up and repeat with the other leg.

2. Stroller Push (3 sets of 30 seconds)
How to do it: Find a flat stretch of pathway. Stand behind the stroller and start jogging while pushing the stroller. Engage your core and focus on your breathing.

3. Squats (2 sets of 15 reps)
How to do it: Stand behind the stroller. Lower your body as far as you can by pushing your hips back and bending your knees, then push back up to the starting position.

4. Stroller High Knees (2 sets of 20 reps)
How to do it: Stand beside your parked stroller. Start jogging in place, lifting your knees as high as you can for about 30 seconds.

5. Baby Peek-A-Boo Planks (2 sets of 30 seconds)
How to do it: Park the stroller and ensure it’s secure. Get into a plank position facing your baby and hold. Every few seconds, play a quick game of peek-a-boo to entertain your little one!

Cool Down: Leisurely Stroller Walk (5 minutes)
Finish your workout with a cool-down walk to lower your heart rate and relax your muscles. This is a great time to sing songs or talk to your baby, reinforcing the special bonding time you’ve had during your workout.

Remember
Always check with your healthcare provider before starting a new fitness routine, especially postpartum.
Make sure your baby is well-supported and safely strapped into the stroller.
Keep an eye on your baby throughout the workout to ensure they are comfortable and happy.
So, grab that stroller and get moving! September's mild weather is calling you and your baby for some active, outdoor fun. Happy strolling!