Over the years a long list of studies have pointed to the power of exercise when it comes to staving off postnatal depression. Even low intensity activities like walking with a stroller can be beneficial. And it goes without saying that working out is critical for heart and over-all health, as well.
Typically women are cleared six weeks after giving birth for exercise. Unfortunately, while the benefits are well documented, carving out time to jump back into that pre-baby HIIT routine may not seem possible, particularly given our country’s ongoing struggles to offer fair across-the-board maternity and paternity leave (we’re not even asking for 40-day postnatal hotels which is customary in many places in Asia!). One of the ways around the problem is to work your exercise program into your every day baby routine. Like a stroller workout routine. There’s no need for dumbbells and jump ropes when you have your bodyweight and a sturdy stroller and some other baby essentials (like a Nappy Genie) that can easily be used as workout props.
By simply pushing your baby in her stroller—something you do already—you can burn calories and complete a total body workout just as you would by sweating it out in a gym.
The first step to a successful stroller workout routine (after finding the perfect postnatal workout leggings) is to find out exactly how incorporate your stroller and other baby essentials into a safe and effective workout routine. We turned to SLT instructor and pre/postnatal fitness expert Vanessa Padula.
Carve out a 20-minute block of time, ideally 5-6 times a week, or break up this routine in between baby’s eat-play-sleep schedule. The basic idea is to do each of these moves for 45 seconds, resting as long as needed between each exercise (if there are two sides, do 45 seconds on each side). When you finish the circuit, rest, and then repeat the circuit another two times.
Bonus advanced move! For this you want to make sure you're using a stable stroller like the Cybex Priam used here (it's arguably the most lightweight yet stable stroller and fast to fold and unfold making it as versatile for baby as it is for using as a workout tool!). Start in plank position with feet gripping the front bottom part of stroller and hands under shoulders. Bend knees slowly as you glide stroller in. Slowly press back out. Don't get us wrong, we love the Uppababy Vista just as much as the next discerning parent, but there's simply no competing with Cybex and in particular the brand's limited edition collaborations. They're the ultimate in fashion and function. The latest launch has them once again teaming up with Moschino's Jeremy Scott for a collection called Petticoat. Inspiration for the new collection originated as a result of a custom design baby gift to Katy Perry, who is a close friend of Scott, and we can all agree that Daisy Dove Bloom is adorable in tow! The Petticoat Collection includes the PRIAM Seat Pack and the PRIAM LUX Carry Cot, as well as the MIOS Seat Pack, the MIOS LUX Carry Cot and the CLOUD Q and Z-I SIZE infant car seats. The collection also has a footmuff and "essential bag." Note that you can put the Petticoat Seat Pack and Carry Cot on any Priam or Mios base. Here it's pictured in Platinum Matte Black, while in the workout demo it's pictured in the Jeremy Scott Wings Frame. Prices vary at Cybex If there's one thing all parents can agree on - especially if you live in an apartment where the trash disposable is many flights down, a Nappy Genie is critical. And yes, this nappy trash is so smell-proof you can use it as a workout tool and not smell a whiff. $62.25 at Amazon No need for a Pilates ring or a block when you have Bobby's feeding pillow. Designed with a lactation consultant it's the perfect item for bonding in comfort. Plus it comes in a long list of print options. $40-$60 at Boppy These aren't great for working out in public (you'll probably expose more skin than you anticipate given how thin the fabric is), but for home workouts you're sneaking in throughout the day, they work perfectly because they allow you to move with ease and comfort while looking flattering enough for all-day wear. Plus, they're a great price! $25 at A Pea in the Pod These leggings were designed with all day wear in mind, so while they won't work for a sweaty HIIT workout, they're perfect for when you're trying to squeeze in lunges and squats throughout the day. They've got a soft, comfortable, second-skin feel and a bit more fitted than the aforementioned A Pea in the Pod ones. $128 at Hatch Collection These don't slip on as easily as the aforementioned two options, but once on, they feel amazing. The have built-in underwear so you can go commando and still go about your day without worrying about leaks or sweat stains. $88 at Motherfigure Beyond Yoga has an extensive collection of maternity leggings (that work postnatal as well) along with a new, dedicated postnatal collection. If you're looking for an option to standup to sweaty workouts, this is a great place to look. Not only do their separates provide full coverage, they're soft, comfortable and very easy to move around in. Plus, unlike most other brands they offer an extensive colour and print selection. Prices vary at Beyond Yoga
Single Leg Dead Lift
Single Leg Dead Lift
Squat Hold with Press Up
Squat Hold with Press Up
Plank Tap
Plank Tap
Hollow Hold to Boat Pose
Hollow Hold to Boat Pose
Jack Knife
Jack Knife
Plank to Bear
Plank to Bear
Cybex Petticoat
Playtex Nappy Genie
Boppy Original Feeding & Infant Support Pillow
A Pea in the Pod Luxe Essentials Secret Fit Belly Ultra Soft Maternity Leggings
Hatch The Premium Legging
Motherfigure Maternity and Postnatal Leakproof Leggings
Beyond Yoga