An older baby can still be a great workout partner! He can sit and watch while you do cardiovascular moves like jumping jacks or high knees, and can add some great resistance to strength moves such as lunges and squats. When he can sit on his own, incorporate him into your workout with this Baby Snatch from Belly Bootcamp! Place baby on the floor, between and just slightly in front of your feet, which are hip-width apart (or wider if you need help balancing). Squat, bending knees and pushing bum behind you, until thighs are roughly parallel with floor. As you squat, reach down to pick up baby by grasping under his arms and curl him up toward your chest. Keep chest up and abdominal muscles contracted, and press up through your heels to return to standing. Squat again to gently place baby back on floor. Repeat for a total of 8-15 repetitions or until you and/or baby is fatigued. Worried about toppling backwards? Perform this exercise in front of your sofa or other low chair/bench until your balance and core strength are improved.
~ Dara Duff-Bergeron is a veteran fitness trainer and a specialist in women’s health and fitness. With a decade under her belt, Dara now shares her exceptional experience and down-to-earth philosophy through Fit Family , personal training and Belly Bootcamp , pre- and post-natal fitness. Dara is mommy of one with another on the way, and lives in Toronto with her own little fit family.
