There is no excuse while having a baby you can’t exercise. It is easier to make excuses that you are too exhausted or that have a millions things to do, but just a few minutes a day can get you back on track to that smoking hot body you dream about while spending quality time with your little one.
Here are six easy exercises to do with your baby in your daily walks or even in your own living room that promise to get you back onto your pre-baby clothes.
1. Lunge pumps While holding you baby, place both feet hip-width apart even wider than that if you need to. Bring one step forward while flexing the opposite knee slightly touching the ground. Get up by straightening your bend knee and placing forward foot back to original position. Repeat with the other leg.
2. Double-leg lowers Sitting on the ground place both feet together on the ground while flexing your knees. Place the baby facing you on your feet and hold his/her hands. Lay on your back and lift as much as possible both legs together until you form a 90 degree angle with the floor. Move your feet together, up and down, lifting and lowering the baby.
3. Push ups kisses Put your baby on his/her back over a mat and place yourself over him/her by placing your hands at each side of him/her. Extend your legs and place your knees on the mat. Gently flex your elbows until you reach and kiss him/her. If you feel ready you can also do a full push-up and place your toes instead of your knees.
4. Happy swings While holding you baby, place both feet hip-width apart even wider than that if you need to. Bend your body forward while your baby ‘hangs’ from your arms. Carefully get up by straightening your back. You can switch between bending forward or by either side. Repeat. Is really important to maintain a straight back at all time, you can achieve this by pressing against your abdominal or core area and also by sticking your bum out. Be careful to not overextend as well.
5. Mama bear Place your baby on the floor towards you and place yourself over him/her by placing your hands at each side of him/her. Extend your legs and arms place your knees on the mat. Gently walk your way up until your body reaches an V position. ‘Walk’ your way down to the starting position. If you feel ready you can also place yourself on your toes instead of knees.
6. Silly sit-ups Sit down on the floor and place both feet on the ground, flex your knees as much as possible until your ankles reach near your bum. Lay down on your back while maintaining a natural lumbar curve. You can check this by placing your hand behind your back while lying down. It should be enough space to slice your hand back and forth. While lying on your back, sit your baby on your tummy while support him/her with your upper legs. Place your hands both sides of your head or by your ears and gently push forward until you reach his/her toes, hands or face depending on your mobility.
Following these easy and fun exercises is an easy way to incorporate some variety for you while you are out and about with your bub.
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Marlin Paz has been doing CrossFit for two years now. She loves dancing, and enjoys cooking healthy food as much as eating it!