Baby Calming PLUS Excercise!

Step #1: Get a rebounder or a mini trampoline. You can get one from Craigslist or buy your own new or used. I have a Needak. It's good to have a good quality version if you can get it. If you are having trouble with a baby that wakes easily, a squeaky trampoline might actually be a good training tool...just make sure it's in good, safe condition.

Step #2: Hold your baby close to you in a modified "football" hold. Modify the hold by tucking the closest leg between your arm and your body. The closer, the better. Closeness of the hold is good for bonding, of course, but is also ideal for keeping your center of gravity closer to you. I recommend holding the baby with one arm under the baby, and using your other arm as a reinforcement for the baby's head/neck. Make sure your baby is secure; if you need to use a sling or other device because your baby is too heavy, go for it. Whatever you do, make sure you can hold that position for 10 minutes at a stretch. It's part of the workout, and you don't want to drop the kid!

Step #3: Bounce gently in a circle or back and forth for two sets of 15 minutes. If you're going in a circle, reverse the direction every so often. No need to jump, just bob up and down. I use a modified 6 step; two steps with my weight shifted slightly to one leg, two steps to transition and two more steps shifted to the other leg. It allows me to go slowly and shift my weight gently. The idea is not to jostle the baby back and forth, but to provide a gentle bob up and down. The workout comes from your gentle bobbing and shifting your weight. It works the legs, lower back, and biceps quite well.

Note that you also will generate some good heat next to the baby, there shouldn't be a need to use a blanket to keep baby warm. It's a good way to keep your balancing muscles in good working order as well. I find that in 20 minutes, a good workout has been had and my baby is either asleep or pretty content at least.

If you have any notes or comments on the technique, please feel free to leave a comment. If you like the idea, pass it on to a new parent!

-ABC