Workout Wednesday: New Mommy Moves

Finding time to workout can be extra challenging post-baby, so today's Workout Wednesday is designed to be done right at home and with your little one. Enjoy the bonding time it presents for you and your baby, while getting in some exercise. 

Benefits: This quick workout will help strengthen your upper body, core muscles, and legs while getting your heart pumping. It can be done anytime and anywhere with your little one!

Step 1:

Stand with feet a little wider than shoulder-width. Extend your arms out straight so they are parallel with the ground.  

Step 2:

Bend your knees to lower down to a squat. Reach your arms to grab your little one. Engage your core and keep your tailbone long (so you don’t arch your lower back) while bending your knees. Chest and shoulders should be upright and your back straight. Keep weight in the center of your feet.

Step 3:

Engage core and, with body weight in the center of your feet, explode back up to standing position while holding your little one with your hands.  Keep your lats (latissimus dorsi) muscles engaged to balance the upper body work between your shoulders.

Step 4:

Carefully lift your little one as high as you can. Than lower her down to your chest.  Repeat this lift 6 to 8 times than lower back down to a squat and begin again.

Honest Tip: To support and protect your lower back, keep your abs engaged at all times. Use your legs throughout this exercise. Remember, the best squats are the deepest ones your mobility allows.

Have fun!  

~Leila, FitPilates

Leila Cunningham is a Certified Pilates Instructor based in Los Angeles, California. When she isn’t sharing her knowledge and passion for Pilates at her studio, she’s spending time with her husband and two beautiful daughters. For more fitness tips and easy exercises, check out her YouTube channel.

This post is solely for informational purposes. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for health advice. Before undertaking any course of exercise, you should seek the advice of your physician or other health care provider.