Time for a perspective shift. As a new mom, it’s hard to find time for self-care and physical activity. But baby’s nap or bed time is one of the best ways to get some great exercise while babywearing. Instead of using a swing or rocker to help put your little one to sleep why not try putting her into your Ergobaby Carrier and get moving?
If you were to start a conventional weight loss work out plan your trainer would have you start with lighter weights in strength training and slowly increase the weight over time as your body gets used to them. Well, your baby is a genius fitness trainer because she naturally will do that for you. As your body adjusts to carrying her around she grows and gains more weight to up the ante of your workouts with her. Awww… she is so smart….yes the smartest baby in the world!! She helped you gain all of that weight and now is going to help you lose it too.
Working out with your baby offers new moms a fast, easy and fun way to get back into shape and take practice self-care without having to drudge off to a boring gym while you leave your little one with someone else.
Here are 3 great exercises you can do while babywearing
1. The Torso Twist
Put your feet shoulder width apart and bend your knees slightly.
Place your hands on your shoulders with your elbows up even with your shoulders.
Engage your stomach muscles and twist from left to right and back again.
Make sure you are keeping your hips stationary and all of the work is happening with your torso only. Keep at this for as long as you can or until your little one falls asleep. You can speed it up or slow it down based on what seems to work best for him or her. If you want to take this to the next level you can even add a little bounce while you are doing it….that’s usually the final KO for my girl!
2. The Chair Dip
Sit on the edge of a sturdy chair, bench or low table. With your legs at a 90 degree angle and your hands on the edge pull yourself forward and press up and down 10-15 times. Sit back on your chair and stretch your neck by tilting it to either side while swaying back and forth to help keep some movement going. Repeat the 10-15 dips. Sit back on your chair and slowly roll your shoulders forward 20 times and then reverse and roll them backwards 20 times. Repeat the dips one last time for 10-15 more reps.
3. The Bouncing Mini Squat
Just like what it sounds like…put your knees shoulder width apart and bounce into mini squats. Don’t go down all the way just what feels natural as a bounce and soothing not jostling for the bebe on your chest. Also make sure you knees stay over your ankles so you don’t injure your self. Now bounce, bounce, bounce until your legs are burning and you can’t take any more.
Put on some soothing music, sing or hum to your baby while you are doing this and you’ll find that it’s really very enjoyable for both of you. You may be surprised to find your loved one starts falling asleep during this little workout series as an added bonus!
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Please use caution when attempting any of the carries, exercise or activities highlighted on this blog, social media or any other content channels. Please use common sense and caution when using a baby carrier. You should consult a physician before starting any diet or exercise program. For more information, see our disclaimer.
Kelli Stewart is the creator of The Babywearing Workout™. Before she got pregnant Kelli was overweight. Then she gained 50 lbs during her pregnancy! Through The Babywearing Workout™, Kelli shares how life as a babywearing mom was all she needed to lose the baby weight and now weighs less than she did before she became pregnant.
