Exercises for Infants… Really?
It is never too early to begin exercising. Even small babies can benefit from exercise. Not only does exercise help babies learn key motor skills it helps calm them and teaches them actions needed when learning to walk. All infants start life weighing in at an average of between 7 and 8 pounds and increase steadily from there.
Babies start to look around at their surroundings right after birth and quickly learn to recognize their mother's voice. Small newborns aren't yet crawling and can't even turn over by themselves. This is a vital time to start exercising with your child. While chubby babies are cute new research has found that these cuties can turn into overweight kids causing this pattern to follow them throughout life.
Parents can introduce exercise to their little one while bonding with them. It's all fun and games at this point including exercise. Try joining a "mommy and me" class where you'll learn the basics of exercising with a baby or just use your own floor as an exercise area. Start slowly by using short movements. Little ones need to feel secure so it's important to keep them feeling safe throughout each entire workout. Choose easy exercises with repetitive motions. Move his or her arms and legs in short, gentle strokes.
At this time mom is likely trying to re-gain her pre-pregnancy figure. Working out using your infant as a weight helps the mom get toned while providing exercise for the little one at the same time. Exercise is good stimulation for your baby's mind as well. Provide new interesting scenery for your baby so he stays attentive. During this point exercise sessions must be rather short - typically less than ten minutes each. Take your cue from your little one and don't force exercise on a baby who is not ready. Remember that this should be a fun session.
There are other things you can do to make sure that your little one gets proper exercise. One thing you can do is vary the amount of time spent on their backs and stomachs. Get a baby exercise toy that you can use throughout the infant year. Even tiny babies enjoy trying to reach for hanging toys with their hands or feet. These movements help infants learn the beginnings of coordination. Place infants on their stomachs from time to time to work all of their muscles evenly. As babies start to crawl they open up a whole new arena for activities. Allow space to enjoy their newfound skill without harm.
As the baby starts to eat solid foods it's important for parents to provide nutritious food while at the same time supplying the correct portions. Just because a baby asks for more doesn't mean he needs it. Check to ensure that you're feeding proper right food portions. Use a food pyramid to determine the correct types of foods to give each day. Regular doctor visits provide you with vital information about weight of your child. If baby starts to become too chubby you'll need to increase exercise and check food intake. Recognize that excess weight could be symptomatic of a problem that should be checked by your pediatrician.
Starting fitness skills early will assist your baby in growing up fit and strong. Children who are introduced to exercise early in life are most likely to stay within recommended weight guidelines as they grow to adults and are less likely to become obese.
Further Reading:
- Exercises for Toddlers: Healthy Living for Kids
- How to Live a Healthy Lifestyle At Any Age
- Exercises for Adults: Getting Fit, Fast!
- Healthy Living and Exercise: Live to be 100!
- Exercises for Kids: Health and Fitness Isn’t Just for Parents!
Tags: Exercise Affirmations, exercise programs, family health, fitness, the importance of exercise, Weight Loss
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