Exercise with Baby

Most new mom's are eager to get back into their pre-baby shape as soon as they bring their new bundle of joy home. However, its no easy task, especially now that you have a new addition to your family. You may be dealing with painful incisions, and find that you are tired almost all the time, so it is best that you heed your doctor's advice and only resume exercise when your body is ready.

However, once you are healed up, there is no reason not to get out there and get your body moving. No time? No one to watch the baby? Not a problem! Nowadays, its easier than ever to get in a few minutes workout even while watching your baby. Even if you only can spare 15 minutes a day, you will find yourself feeling and looking better with these few tips:

1) Break out your stroller: Walking may be the best exercise for you and you baby as early as a few weeks after you bring your little munchkin home. You'll love the fresh air and exercise, and they will love looking at some new surroundings. If you don't feel comfortable walking in your own neighborhood, then head to a local park and take it to the trails (though be wary to use only well paved, well lit paths with lots of other people around). If you like, once your baby is around six months old you can use a jogging stroller and bump you walks up a notch. *Bonus: The stroll may even lull you little one to sleep!

2) Use a Workout Video: While your baby is napping, pop in a workout video and sweat it out. You can choose from a variety of videos like yoga, pilates, tae bo, step aerobics or my personal favorite, "15 Minute Workouts for Dummies." Can't seem to get your little guy to sleep? Make sure they are in a safe and secure area (like a playpen) and entertain them with goofy dance moves and yoga poses.

3) Find a Family-Friendly Gym: Many gym's designed especially for women offer daycare services for their members, so that you can hit the treadmill while someone else is watching your child. This may not be the best option for mom's with very young babies (some gyms don't accept babies younger than six months). These gyms also don't necessarily employ childcare workers to watch your baby while you workout , so this may not be the best option for childcare conscious parents.

4) Incorporate Your Baby into Your Workout: You can't find a better set of weights than a 20 pound toddler! Do sets of "baby squats" and "baby lifts" and use your child as a weight, creating your own workout. They will think its fun, and you will get the chance to pump some iron (or baby?). However, exercise with caution and use safety procedures so that you don't drop or injure your child.

5) Find another parent to swap time with: Got a girlfriend with a baby that would love a few hours to her week as well? Swap time with another mom or dad and babysit for each other so that you can get some time to yourself. Again, make sure this is someone you trust with your child.

No matter what your workout style is, not long after having your baby, you too can be on your way to getting back into shape.