Fitness Class Kicks New and Future Moms Into Shape

Mothers at all different fitness levels go to Baby Boot Camp classes to get in a good workout without leaving their baby’s side.

Children sit in strollers while the moms push them and incorporate the strollers into the workouts. The classes focus on cardio, strength and core routines, said owner and instructor of Baby Boot Camp Kristen Herlihy.

“I started with Baby Boot Camp when Zoe was just 6 weeks old and I love the social aspect of it,” said Jess Jaeger, Baby Boot Camp member. “My main goal when I began was to lose my baby weight and get in shape and that I did!”

The lessons are taught at three different levels. Level 1 is low intensity and low impact for moms who are currently pregnant or recently postpartum. Level 2 has a higher intensity than level 1 yet is still low impact. Level 2 is good for those with bad knees or a bad back, Herlihy said. Level 3 is high impact and high intensity with no restrictions for moms who are at least four to six months postpartum.

Classes are five times a week on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Check out the Baby Boot Camp website to find out more information.

Outdoor classes are held at Sandy Beach, 6 Mystic Valley Parkway, in Winchester, and indoor classes are held at St. Eulalia Parish, 50 Ridge St., and at Wolf Den Lacrosse, 30 Holton St.

Check out the Baby Boot Camp Facebook page for daily updates.

“It was an amazing added bonus to meet all sorts of other like-minded moms at class because I don’t have a lot of friends who are also moms that live close-by to just talk to about, well, being a mom,” Jager said.

Fathers and spouses of a registered mom can join in on the classes for no extra cost on Family Days on Saturday.

The dads end up enjoying the classes, Herlihy said.

“It’s a great way for the family to workout together,” she said. “Kids are more likely to be healthier and lead healthier lives if their parents are active.”

The first Baby Boot Camp class is always free for first time users. “The mom can come out and try the class to see if it is a good fit for her,” Herlihy said.

If a mom signs up within 24 hours after her first free class, she will receive $10 the equipment kit and $5 off a class package of their choice.

Baby Boot Camp will expand in 2015 to add yoga-inspired stroller fitness classes called “Strollga” where moms perform yoga moves with their kids while they’re in the stroller. “The moms really enjoy it,” Herlihy said.

For more information about the programs, email Herlihy.

Photo Credit: Baby Boot Camp