Did you know that mums and expectant mums can exercise with their babies?

It is a known fact that exercise is beneficial before, during and after pregnancy. Doctors stress the importance of moving, provided, of course, that there are no medical contraindications and you don’t exercise to hard. However, a shortage of time, money and a busy life can get in the way.

Baby Fitness is a new phenomenon designed for situations like this. Activities are guided by a monitor (Pilates, fitness, hypopressive exercises and running) for groups of pregnant women who want to train with their babies. These activities can take place both outdoors and indoors, and they are excellent for getting back in shape after the birth.

These classes reactivate and tone the abdominal belt with hypopressive abdominal exercises (to prevent urinary incontinence), recovering muscle tone with specific exercises that improve the cardiovascular system and encourage correct posture (relieving backache).

This type of adapted exercise is recommended throughout pregnancy. After giving birth, you can start exercising at the sixth week in case of a vaginal birth, and the eighth week in case of a Caesarean. Exercise regularly for at least a year. Mums can start these classes when the baby is six weeks old.

Many monitors prefer open air classes, where there is more room to do different routines and they can take advantage of items in the surroundings (handrails, benches, lampposts, and stairs).

Exercising with babies

1. Run or walk

If you enjoy walking or running outside, push your baby along in a pram or stroller. Start by finding a track or path near your home, and build up the distance in time. If you prefer walking, move at a brisk pace, as though you were in a hurry, which will burn more fat. This will exercise your body and relax your mind while you baby enjoys a stroll in the fresh air.

2. Abdominal exercises

There is a method for toning the belly and core (abdominal muscles) while you hold your baby on your legs. Lie on the floor, lift and bend your knees to 90 degrees and place your baby on your abdomen. Then stretch your arms on both sides, slightly lift your back and head and try to hold the position for a few seconds.

3. Push ups with kisses

Do push ups with your baby lying the baby under you face and give him or her a kiss every time you meet. To strengthen your buttocks, lie face up and lift and lower your pelvis. This will be lots of fun if you lie or sit your baby on top of you will have fun. It will feel like bouncing on your knee.

Although you can always train on your own, going to Baby Fitness classes not only offers the benefits of physical training, but is a get-together with other mums going through the same things, while benefiting from the knowledge and support of a professional.

All the activities you do with your baby will strengthen your bond.

This post is also available in: Italian