Moms often find it challenging to find time for themselves to exercise and stay fit, especially with the responsibilities of taking care of young children.
But did you know that you can get a great workout while spending quality time with your child? Stroller exercises are a fantastic way for busy moms to incorporate physical activity into their daily routine. Not only will you be able to burn calories and improve your fitness, but you’ll also be setting a great example for your little one.
In this article, we will explore various stroller exercises that you can easily incorporate into your busy schedule.
1. Walking Lunges
Walking lunges are a great exercise for targeting your glutes, quadriceps, and hamstrings. Start by taking a step forward with your right leg, bending your knee to a 90-degree angle.
Push up from your right foot and bring your left foot forward into the next lunge. Keep alternating legs as you walk, ensuring that your knees don’t extend past your toes. Engage your core and maintain an upright posture throughout the exercise. Repeat for 10-12 lunges on each leg.
2. Squats
Squats are a fantastic lower body exercise that strengthens your glutes, quadriceps, and hamstrings. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and lower your body as if you were sitting back into a chair.
Keep your back straight, chest lifted, and heels on the ground. Push through your heels to return to the starting position. Aim for 3 sets of 12-15 squats.
3. Stroller Push-ups
Who said push-ups can only be done on the ground? Stroller push-ups add an extra challenge to the traditional push-up exercise. Place your hands on the handlebars of the stroller, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
Step back into a plank position, ensuring that your body forms a straight line from head to toe. Lower your chest towards the stroller by bending your elbows, then push back up to the starting position. Perform 2 sets of 10-12 push-ups.
4. Stroller Power Walk
A brisk walk can be a wonderful cardiovascular exercise. Strap your child into the stroller and enjoy a power walk through your neighborhood or a local park. Maintain an upright posture, engage your core, and pump your arms as you walk.
Aim for a duration of 30-45 minutes, depending on your fitness level. This exercise will not only benefit you but also provide fresh air and stimulation for your little one.
5. Stroller Jogging
If you’re looking to take your cardiovascular workout up a notch, try stroller jogging. Ensure that you have a jogging stroller that is specifically designed for running. Always start with a warm-up walk and gradually increase your pace to a jog.
Focus on maintaining a steady pace and proper running form. Remember to listen to your body and take breaks as needed. Stay hydrated and enjoy the bonding experience with your child as you both get some fresh air and exercise.
6. Stroller Step-Ups
Stroller step-ups are an effective exercise for toning your lower body, particularly your glutes and quadriceps. Find a step, bench, or sturdy elevated surface that allows you to comfortably step up with one foot at a time.
Holding on to the stroller for support, step up with your right foot, followed by your left foot. Step back down and repeat for 10-12 reps on each leg. Ensure that your knees are in line with your toes and your core is engaged throughout the exercise.
7. Stroller Tricep Dips
Tricep dips target the back of your arms and can be easily done using the stroller. Position yourself facing away from the stroller and place your hands on the handlebars. Walk your feet forward, bending your knees at a 90-degree angle.
Lower your body down by bending your elbows, then push back up to the starting position. Aim for 2 sets of 10-12 tricep dips.
8. Stroller Ab Crunches
Ab crunches are a fantastic exercise for strengthening your core muscles. Securely park the stroller and lie down on your back. Place your feet flat on the ground, hip-width apart, and bring your knees up towards the ceiling.
Place your hands behind your head, elbows wide. Engage your core, exhale as you lift your upper body towards your knees, and inhale as you lower back down. Repeat for 2 sets of 15-20 crunches.
9. Stroller Calf Raises
Calf raises are a simple exercise for targeting your calf muscles. Stand behind the stroller, feet shoulder-width apart, and hold on to the handlebars for support. Raise your heels off the ground, lifting your body weight onto the balls of your feet.
Lower your heels back down and repeat for 2 sets of 15-20 calf raises. For an extra challenge, perform the exercise on one leg at a time.
10. Stroller Plank
The plank exercise is a fantastic way to strengthen your core and improve stability. Park the stroller and position yourself facing the stroller in a plank position with your forearms resting on the handlebars.
Ensure that your body forms a straight line from head to toe, engaging your core and glutes. Hold the plank for 30-60 seconds, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable with the exercise.
Conclusion
Being a busy mom doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your fitness goals. Stroller exercises provide a convenient and fun way to stay active while spending quality time with your child.
Incorporate these exercises into your daily routine and watch as you become a stronger, fitter, and healthier mom. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program, and always listen to your body’s needs and limitations.