Workout moves with baby in tow

Exercises for
Mom and Baby

Lose the baby weight and fit back into those skinny jeans in no time!
All you need is your baby and your own body to get into great post-baby shape.

Being a new mom is challenging on a good day, and it can be difficult to find time to fit in exercise. A lack of time and childcare can offset even the most determined person. Luckily, there are some exercises you can do that use your baby as resistance while providing you the chance to bond with your baby. The best part? These exercises can still be done as your baby becomes a toddler — the weight just gets to be more challenging as they grow! You can perform the following exercises as a circuit for two to three rounds.

1Squat

Hold your baby close and put your feet hip-distance apart. Sit back into a squat as if you're sitting into a chair. Keep your knees over your ankles. Power through your heels as you stand, and keep your core engaged. Do 10 to 15 repetitions.

2Lunge

Hold your baby close and take a large step forward. Lower yourself until both knees are bent to 90 degrees. Keep your front knee directly over your ankle and your abs tight. Aim for 10 lunges per leg.

3Leg extension

This is a great exercise with older children. Sit in a chair and position your child over your shin and sitting on your foot. Holding onto their hands, lift your leg straight up. Do 10 repetitions per leg.

4Glute bridge

Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet hip-distance apart. Sit your baby on your lap. As you exhale, raise your hips and push your heels into the floor. Do 10 to 15 repetitions.

5Shoulder press

Using your shoulders, raise your baby into the air. Keep your abs tight to protect your back. Do 10 to 12 repetitions.

6Push-ups

There are two variations you can try. For the traditional push-up, start in a plank position with your wrists under your elbows and your abs engaged. Lower down until your elbows are bent to 90 degrees, and give your baby a kiss! Shoot for 10 to 12 push-ups.

A second variation is a triceps push-up. Start in plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart. Lower your chest to the floor while keeping your arms parallel to your sides and your elbows pointing back. You can come to your knees to make both push-ups easier.

7Plank

Place your baby on the ground below you and stay in a high plank with your shoulders directly over your wrists. Check your body in a straight line. Sing a song to your baby. "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" takes about 30 seconds to sing.

8Boat

From a seated position, bring your knees together. Place your baby on your lap and slowly raise your feet. Sing "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" to make it more fun!

Before starting a new exercise routine, always check with your healthcare provider. Take it slow with your baby and make sure that your baby is safe the entire time. Keep in mind that if you had a C-section, your body will likely need a longer time to recover.

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