WHAT IS STROLLER FITNESS?
Stroller workouts are a multi-tasking goldmine because they are a shared
experience for mom and baby, both of whom benefit from being outdoors,
and mom has the opportunity to improve her fitness level while modeling
healthy behavior (and entertaining) her child. Very little equipment
is needed. Resistance tubing is helpful but not necessary. A little
creativity is all it takes to devise a challenging workout using park
benches, steps, sand...the possibilities are endless. The workout can
be different each and every time to keep it mentally stimulating, or
a mom who prefers consistency can progress through the same workout
each week. It's also a chance to take advantage of beautiful parks,
beaches and neighborhoods when the weather cooperates, or indoor malls
when it doesn't.
Exercise tends to fall toward the bottom of many moms to do lists and
for good reason; taking care of a family can be all-consuming. The list
of chores is seemingly endless and exercise is perceived as something
that we do for "ourselves", and therefore, it is the easiest
to put off. When we change the perception of our exercise time to being
an activity that is beneficial for mom and baby, then suddenly it doesn't
seem so self-serving. We all know the immense benefits of working out
- better overall health, strength, more energy, more quality sleep,
relieved stress, sense of accomplishment, maintaining a healthy weight,
etc. We need to realize all these things in turn make us better parents.
Being a mother is a demanding job that requires strength and endurance
just to get through our daily activities as efficiently as possible.
WHY ARE STROLLER WORKOUTS BETTER THAN OTHER WORKOUTS?
For an attached parent like myself, time spent with my daughter is priceless.
However, I also love exercising. Stroller workouts provide a unique
way for me to get a GREAT workout while taking all the time I need,
so I don't feel guilty in any way for indulging myself in a run instead
of spending time with her. I can do BOTH, quite effectively. Almost
30 years ago, before stroller workouts existed, my mother strapped me
into an infant seat on the back of her bike and took me out to explore
the neighborhood on frequent bike rides. She also let me play in the
back of the multipurpose room of the YMCA while she taught Jazzercise
to a roomful of women to the beat of "Copacabana". These make
up some of my earliest childhood memories, and I don't think it's coincidence
that exercise became a natural part of my life. I thank my mother for
that and I would like to return the favor to my own daughter.
WHY DO STROLLER WORKOUTS CONSIST OF?
One stroller workout session typically lasts 45-60 minutes depending
on the age of the child as women with infants benefit from shorter workouts
spread throughout the day. Each workout consists of a cardio and strength
circuit followed by core work and stretching. Core work is a necessity
because all of the heavy lifting parents do every day make strong abdominal
and back muscles imperative. We need to be strong from the inside out!
We also discuss biomechanics quite a bit (such as proper lifting techniques,
the best way to get your child in his/her car seat, etc.) because it's
important for people to leave their training session with practical
tools for daily life. Music is also an important element of our workouts,
so we often entertain the kids with their favorite songs.
CAN WOMEN DO IT ON THEIR OWN OR IS A CLASS NECESSARY?
Everyone responds to training situations differently, so they need to
find out what is ideal for them. Many people enjoy the social aspect
of working out with a group and a package of stroller classes also fits
into many budgets quite nicely. The most beneficial workouts for most
people are individual personal training sessions, which give me a chance
to focus on their strengths and weaknesses, and tailor a workout that
will deliver the results they're looking for. For a person who is extremely
disciplined and self-motivated, the remote training is an excellent
option. It provides structure and accountability, but gives them plenty
of freedom.
Signing-up is never been easier! I invite you to call 813.434.0085 seven days a week from 8:00am-8:00pm where a I will answer your questions right over the phone or click here to email me any question you have.