What is Stroller Strides?
Stroller Strides is a total fitness program for new moms that they can do with their babies. It includes Power Walking and intervals of body toning using exercise tubing and the stroller. Taught by specially trained instructors, it's a great workout for any level of exerciser. Please get doctor's permission before starting this or any other exercise.

How do I start?
Choose a location that works for you. Arrive at all classes at least 15 minutes before start time. We leave promptly at start time and wouldn't want to leave anyone behind.

What do I need?
You, your baby and the stroller. Just about any kind of stroller will do so long as it's not prone to tipping. We also suggest you bring WATER, a hat or sunblock for both you and your baby, and a towel or mat for our ground exercises.

Who can I call?
Call us at 866-FIT-4MOM or email us at info@strollerstrides.com for general Stroller Strides information. Go to the Locations Page for your area to get local contact information.

What can I expect when we meet?
Each class consists of a warm up, a power walk and "stations" where we do a variety of body toning exercises. We use exercise tubing (which we provide you with), the stroller and the environment to create our gym. If your baby is fussy, we will show you exercises that you can do with your baby.

I can only get to class once a week. Is that enough?
Come whenever you can. If you can only make it once a week, then try some of the exercises at home on your own. The key to getting back in shape and staying in shape is consistency. It doesn't take much so long as you stick with it!

What if the weather is bad? How do I know if class is cancelled?
Classes are cancelled in severe or unsafe weather. Contact your local instructor to find out about weather policies in your area.

How old does my baby have to be?
We recommend waiting until your baby is at least 6 weeks of age to begin class. They can take classes up to any age so long as they still enjoy a ride in the stroller. ALWAYS get your doctor's permission before starting this or any other kind of exercise program.

How long are the workouts?
The workouts are 1-hour. The walk is approximately 50-minutes, followed by 10-minutes of abs and/or stretching.

What do I do if my baby gets fussy?
Our first priority is the happiness of your baby. Tend to your baby first. Because we stop every few minutes for body toning, you can always catch up with us if you get behind. If your baby ever fusses so much that you miss a class, we will happily credit you another class. Our instructors will do their very best to make the class enjoyable for both you and your baby!

A woman with postpartum depression may find relief if she pushes her baby in a stroller accompanied by other moms and infants. Australian researchers found that among new moms who'd been diagnosed with depression, those who completed a 12-week stroller-walking class showed fewer symptoms than those in a mom-baby play group that didn't involve exercise.

The scientists concluded that gaining fitness through the sociability of stroller walking may be a more effective treatment for depression than joining a sedentary new mother support group. For stroller walking classes in your area, visit www.strollerstrides.com.

Amanda Vogel
International Journal of Nursing Practices.