Now that I am a mom, I am thrilled to write some fit parenting blog posts. Here are a few “Mommy and Me” exercises that Emma and I have been doing.

• Walking/Jogging: No – it’s not rocket science, but it’s a great way to get back into shape and ease into a workout routine post delivery. Emma and I wake up every morning at 6.30 for a feeding and a walk. The dog gets to come too Start slow and with short distances. Slowly increase until you are walking/jogging several miles at a brisk pace. Try to keep your HR up to 85% of the target (220-age*.85) to maximize your time. Walk or jog at high intensity for a full hour, and you will burn approximately 600 calories.
• Sit ups: Emma and I do sit ups together (she sits with her head up toward my knees (make sure she is secure and keep your hands on her while you do the sit up). Sit ups and crunches will help you get your pre-pregnancy abs back quickly Again, start slow with a small amount and continue to increase. Do not work your abs every day – give them time to recover between workouts.
• Wall sits: Shape and tone your butt, hamstrings, and quads. Put your back against a wall while holding your baby securely. Use the wall for support and keep your body in a sitting position with your legs at a 90 degree angle. Do several reps of 30 seconds each.
• Horse stance: Put your baby on a blanket on the floor. Kneel over your baby on your hands and knees. Keep your back straight and abs tight. Lift your left arm and right leg parallel to the ground. Switch to the opposite arm and leg. Continue to alternate. Focus on isolating your abs and back muscles. You will also tone your butt, hamstrings, and shoulders.

I will post more later as I continue to ease back into an exercise routine. Be creative! There are tons of exercises that you can do with your baby. But remember, safety first! Set a specific time for your exercise routine and stick to it! It will make you a happy, healthy mom, and you will be spending more fun time with your baby! Best wishes.