I’ll admit it— I used to be a cardio junkie. The weight machines at the gym intimidated me, as did the bulky men (and sometimes women) that used them. I’d walk right past those machines and into the aerobics room where I’d take a one-hour Zumba class 4-5 times per week. I’ll admit I was thin and pretty happy with my appearance, and I chalked that all up to my cardio. … [Read more...] about Lifting to Get Lean: Why Women Need to Strength Train
How to Strengthen the Pelvic Floor after Childbirth
I’d just had my 5th baby a few months ago and desperately wanted to get back into a regular workout routine. I didn’t feel like myself—not just because of the extra 30 pounds, but because I was used to being very active and hadn’t been since giving birth. Having my 4th and 5th only 15 months apart made it difficult to go…well…anywhere. I finally got the “babies,” as I called … [Read more...] about How to Strengthen the Pelvic Floor after Childbirth
Best Fitness Tracker for Pregnancy: Fitbit vs. Apple Watch
We all know it’s important to exercise during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends pregnant women get at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise every day. Benefits of prenatal exercise include more energy, decreased chance of cesarean, shorter postpartum recovery, reduced low back and leg pain, and prevention of … [Read more...] about Best Fitness Tracker for Pregnancy: Fitbit vs. Apple Watch
Exercising After Baby: The 5 Best Workouts for Postpartum Moms
After each of my babies were born, I could not wait to get back into a fitness routine. I was a dancer growing up, and as an adult found joy in dance fitness classes like Zumba and barre. Since then, I’ve also become a fitness instructor and get to work with women in all stages of their pregnancy and postpartum journeys. Pregnancy is wonderful in so many ways, but most women … [Read more...] about Exercising After Baby: The 5 Best Workouts for Postpartum Moms
15 Best Backyard Toys for Young Kids
Four years ago our family finally purchased our first home. Until that point we had lived in condominiums with very little outdoor space. With growing children, we felt it was time to move to a home with a yard. We were ecstatic that the home purchase included a swing set, but after a few months in the home, they became bored. We started looking for the best backyard toys … [Read more...] about 15 Best Backyard Toys for Young Kids