Pilates At Home (part I)

As a new mom, it’s hard to find time to exercise. Let alone, time to exercise alone. For many of us, the ONLY way to do is to do it with kids in tow.

Mommy & me workout classes can be great, but it can be a task to get out the door on time and more often than not a fussy baby or last minute diaper blowout can foil the most well-intetioned plans.

I don’t know about you, but I often find myself laying on floor at the end of a long day with my little one thinking “I should workout.”

This thought is quickly followed by “ya, that’s not gonna happen.”

It’s these times that mat Pilates can come in handy. For everyone, not just moms!

Little 5 minute routines, when done daily, can add up to significant results.

I’ve been doing a short Pilates series lately which helps me feel rejuvenated and productive when a full workout isn’t in the cards.

And Blake loves it, she thinks it’s hilarious when I do push ups over her and kiss her face.

Over the next few weeks I’ll be sharing sets of 3 exercises that you can do while playing on the floor with your little one.

Come on, you’re already an expert multi-tasker so I know you can throw this in the mix 🙂

Tricep Push-Ups

Begin in the push up position and then lower your knees to the floor and lift your feet off the ground. Keep your elbows tucked in by your side as you lower your chest to the ground and push back up to straight.

Tips: keep your head in line with your spine, pull your belly in, exhale as you extend your arms.

Clam Shells

(great for the glutes!)

Lie on your side in a straight line, resting your head on your bottom arm. Bend you knees so that they are in a 90 degree angle in front of you. Draw your waist in as if you were trying to create a little mouse-hole underneath you. Keep your pelvis facing forward as you open and close your top knee. Do 10 reps. Repeat with your feet off the floor and your knees resting on the ground.

Tips: Avoid rolling back onto your hip, relax your neck, pull your belly button toward your spine.

Leg Circles

In the same side-lying position straighten your top leg out while keeping your bottom leg bent. Draw your waist in, point your toe and draw circles with your leg (about the size of a volleyball). Draw 10 circles in each direction.

Tips: Keep your torso absolutely still, relax your neck, think of drawing the circle with your thigh bone rather than your foot.

I’ll be doing these from home on a daily basis and I hope you’ll join me!

Remember, little habits, when practiced consistently, add up to big results.

xo,