Quickie No. 1
Baby dancing
Dancing provides a light
cardiovascular workout
that involves all the
major muscle groups
and improves balance
and coordination. It’s
also sure to elevate your
mood, no matter how
tired and stressed you
might be.
You can do this while
holding your baby or with
him in a front carrier that
keeps him close to your
body and supports his
head (a carrier with straps
that fit over your shoulders and around your
waist is best). Just put
on some music you love
and dance, keeping your
abs drawn in. For variety,
try intervals of slow and
moderately fast music
to keep your heart rate
elevated. (If your baby is
in a carrier, be cautious
when turning quickly and
avoid bouncing.) Breathe
deeply or sing out loud
to monitor your exertion
level; you should be able
to speak without losing
your breath.
You also can place your
baby in a bouncy seat or
swing and dance around
him. Make your movements large and animated
(reach above your head
and stretch your arms out
to the sides, for example)
and maintain eye contact
with him.
December/January 2012