Crucial to mom’s survival, even more than Dad’s after baby’s arrival. I searched for mom and baby friendly classes – there are many around – timing of class versus nap is always a juggle. Lucked into a mom running class, great way to use that expensive stroller, be outside and loose some pg pounds. There are several programs around for this type of thing, but here’s what none of the cheery websites will tell you – not only is exercise after baby hard but baby may hate it. Really hate it some days, mildly dislike it others, be desperate for a nap sometimes, throw their cup 20 times until you are about to throw something yourself.
But the saving grace after you’ve read the websites touting bonding and “you’re a great example” is that everyone in class is going through the same thing. It may not look the same today because everyone elses baby is calmly riding along or munching cheerios but next week, guaranteed, there will be a meltdown and it may not be your child. And if it gets really bad, its ok to stop, unless of course you’re now several miles from your car/home/place to warm up. Then you must keep going.
Here in Seattle, we highly reccommend Coach Beth, a new mom herself and owner of Running Evolution www.runningevolution.com – she does mommy run classes, circuit training and private coaching all with her own tot in tow so she may be having a good baby day or not, just like you.
