Mommy and Me Workout:
Kids Corner

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, April 9 and July 9, 2005
Show 211

Want to shed some of those unwanted pounds after you have a baby? But not sure you're gonna have the time? Getting in a good workout isn't the first thing that has to go once you're bombarded with dirty diapers and frequent feedings and all that laundry. Let your new little one join in on the fun. Exercising with your baby can help you loose that unwanted weight, while keeping your baby entertained at the same time. Here are some simple exercises to try. Lie on your back. Knees bent. With feet flat on the floor about hip width apart, with your baby on your hips, press your heels down and roll your spine up. Lifting your hips as high as possible. Repeat this exercise five times. To work your abs, back, shoulders and legs lay your baby on the floor. Facing him, cradle him with your arms while you stretch your legs out resting on your knees. Press your knees up to form a straight line from heels to head. Hold this position for a few breaths. Then lower your knees and repeat. Don't forget to kiss your little one on the way down. To strengthen your arms, hold your baby with your right arm. Stand arms length in front of a wall with feet wider than shoulder width apart. Place your left hand on the wall. Bend your left elbow so that your forehead almost touches the wall. Then push back up to the starting position. Repeat this on both sides. It's important to include cardio exercise in your workout routine. Get the stroller out and take your baby for a walk. Or turn on the tunes and dance around the house with your baby. What better dance partner can you have than somebody who can't possibly step on your toes? The most important thing to remember about exercise, it's not an all or nothing proposition. Post-partum is a transition period. Even ten minutes a day of exercise will help whittle off those last few unwanted pounds.