Confession: I actually have a pulled muscle from all my testing out of new workouts for moms! However, I also have muscles in new places that I never knew were possible… and I like it. After my latest round of killing myself trying out exercises to narrow down the most time efficient with the best bang for your buck (as in, most calories burned and muscles built), here are Breezy Mama’s current 3 picks.
The CoreBody Reformer
Dude, what the heck? Trust me, I thought the same thing when I came across this piece of exercise equipment. In fact, whenever I bust it out, I yell out to my many, many family members: ‘It’s crazy workout contraption time!’ Touted as “three workouts in 1″, delivering cardio and strength, this puppy is my new best friend. Admittedly, though it’s said to be “lightweight,” my workout starts when I carry it over in front of the TV (read: not light!). Following along with the accompanying DVD with celebrity fitness trainer Jennifer Galardi, there are four workouts to choose from that are 43 minutes (my pick for a full body/cardio/done for the day… week really, if you want…kidding… kind of…), 25 minutes, 20 minutes and 22 minutes. Yep, no excuse not to devote a small chunk of time to complete Yoga, Pilates and Dance benefits all wrapped up into ONE workout routine (no need to drive to the gym — all from the convenience of your home!). This thing rocks and when your family wonders why you have a crazy contraption, I will proudly take full blame as long as you give me the credit for your smokin’ hot new body!
To learn more, visit The CoreBody Reformer site here.
BOB Stroller Strides Fitness Stroller
Every mom needs to get this on their Mother’s Day wish list asap! Bringing you all the wonderful benefits of the BOB brand (Easy to push! Easy to navigate! Uber comfy for babies!), I was so excited to check out this version as it comes with Xertubes (think: exercise bands) and a pamphlet of exercises to do while you are out and about with your child! With Xertubes arm raises, or a series of walk while you do squats, I am impressed with this workout friendly model! If you have the opportunity to take a Stroller Strides class (my BOB came with a coupon for a free trial), this is a must-have! Even if it’s not convenient for you to join, I loved how the accompanying pamphlet of exercises could be done anywhere. Ready for a quick walk? The bands are in a convenient storage pouch and BOB just introduced a snack tray to come with their awesome single strollers so your child can stay occupied with their stash of cheerios or some toys. Truly a win-win workout as you get in shape while out enjoying the fresh air with your child. Love.
To learn more, visit BOB Gear here.
Core Fusion Yoga Energy Flow
Just went I thought I was out with Yoga, US Weekly/People Magazine always pulls me back in with all the talk on how Jennifer Aniston gets her hot bod from the zen-like exercise. And this DVD is a true workout! I never once had trouble following along with the five 10-minute segments, but it truly gives you a complete body workout, with no mercy for any muscle… except for my relaxed brain. Lately, I’ve been kicking off the week with this option, followed by my crazy contraption workout above and sprinkled with as many walks/exercises while out with my BOB. If I have time, I throw in another of the workout DVDs that have passed my test and there you have it! Easy ways for busy moms to get some exercise!
Purchase the Yoga Energy Flow DVD here.
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OMG, what will they come up with next!?? Where were these when mine were babies? Just wow.
For me it has to be the stroller classes. With a little one in tow, it has been one of the few things that I can do at the moment that doesn’t involve having to finder a sitter. The little one can come along and watch mommy get fit.