As a new mom, finding time to exercise can be challenging. However, with a little creativity and a baby stroller, you can incorporate fitness into your daily routine.
Stroller workouts are an excellent way to get your heart rate up, strengthen your muscles, and bond with your little one. Plus, you can do them anywhere – at the park, in your neighborhood, or even in your backyard. Here are 5 stroller workouts that are easy to do and require minimal equipment.
1. Walking Lunges
Walking lunges are a great exercise to target your glutes, quads, and hamstrings. To perform this exercise, start by standing behind your stroller with your hands on the handlebar.
Take a big step forward with your right leg, keeping your knee directly above your ankle. Lower your body until your right thigh is parallel to the ground, and then push off with your left leg to bring your right foot back to the starting position. Repeat on the other side, alternating legs as you walk.
Aim for 3 sets of 10-12 lunges on each leg.
2. Stroller Squats
Squats are an excellent way to work your lower body, including your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. To perform stroller squats, stand with your feet hip-width apart and place your hands on the handlebar of your stroller.
Keeping your back straight, lower your body as if you’re sitting back into a chair. Make sure your knees don’t extend beyond your toes. Pause for a moment at the bottom, and then push back up to the starting position. Aim for 3 sets of 12-15 squats.
3. Stroller Push-ups
Push-ups are a classic exercise that target your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core. To do stroller push-ups, stand facing your stroller with your hands on the handlebar, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
Step back into a plank position, making sure your body forms a straight line from your head to your heels. Bend your elbows and lower your chest towards the stroller, keeping your elbows close to your sides. Push back up to the starting position. Aim for 3 sets of 8-10 push-ups.
4. Stroller Step-ups
Step-ups are a fantastic exercise for strengthening your lower body, especially your glutes, hamstrings, and quadriceps. To perform stroller step-ups, find a step or bench that is sturdy enough to support your weight.
Start by standing in front of the step with your stroller in front of you. Step your right foot onto the step and push through your heel to lift your body up onto the step. Tap your left foot on the step, and then step back down with your right foot. Repeat on the other side, alternating legs.
Aim for 3 sets of 10-12 step-ups on each leg.
5. Stroller Jogging
Jogging with your stroller is an excellent way to get your cardio in while spending quality time with your baby. Make sure that your stroller is designed for jogging and has a locking mechanism to keep it stable.
Start with a brisk walk to warm up, and then gradually pick up the pace to a jog. Keep your core engaged and maintain good posture as you run. Start with a distance and speed that you feel comfortable with, and gradually increase as you build up your fitness level.
Remember to listen to your body and modify the exercises as needed. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop and consult with a healthcare professional.
Stroller workouts are a fun and convenient way to stay active as a new mom, but remember to prioritize your and your baby’s safety while exercising.