new year, new you
Why—and how—you should make room for fitness

If last year’s New Year’s Eve kiss brought on this year’s bundle of joy, you may now be struggling with the extra bundle of weight that your little one left behind. Moms sacrifice everything for their babies, and the first thing they give up is usually their own body.

Preconceived Notions
increase your chances for a healthy pregnancy

We’re not all actresses with access to the top trainers and nutritionists, but with the proper exercise, nutrition and pre-natal care, women can be fit and fabulous before conceiving, which can lead to a healthy and comfortable pregnancy and a healthy baby, medical experts say. And isn’t that what’s most important?

Back to the Gym- it's easier when your baby is welcome, too.

Are you one of those enviable few who quickly-and practically without effort- returns to her pre-pregnancy, fit and fantastic body mere months after giving birth? No? Then we bet you're feeling some pressure to get (back) to a gym as soon as possible. Thankfully, now, more than ever, local gyms and fitness centers are welcoming new mothers-and their babies- with open arms.

Splish, Splash- water fun for you and your baby

"Our son's become a hippopotamus," say River Ridge resident Beth Bracy, laughing. No, she's not referring to his size, but his affinity for lounging underwater, albeit in a pool instead of a river in Africa. " He'll only surface to take a breath."

Fit to deliver-
Exercising your way to a healthier, happier pregnancy, labor & recovery

For some, exercise is a way of life. For others, it's a dirty word they'd rather ignore. But whether you're an avid athlete or you feel like walking the dog is an unnecessary exertion, the truth is that all women can benefit from exercises to help prepare for the journey of childbirth: from labor through recovery to regaining your figure.

Fitting in again -
Exercising with your baby makes it easier

So, you've made it through the first six weeks since your baby was born. Walking, eating, and occasionally sleeping- all for the sake of your wee one. Think you can't focus on fitness when your new baby commands all of your time and attention? Not true. In our modern world, there are options everywhere, even the option to attend exercise programs with your infant.

Mind, body, baby -
Prenatal yoga helps during pregnancy and beyond

Release tension. Reduce stress. Gain good posture. All are possible through one activity: yoga. And now, pregnant women- even those with no previous yoga experience- can get into the act.