Stroller Workouts That Can Work for You and Your Child in New York City
Jun 29 2010
If your jogging stroller has been doing a lot more strolling than jogging lately, you might want to consider checking out some of these stroller workout classes. I strapped on my sneakers and strapped in my one-and-a-half-year-old to try them out. Here's what we learned about stroller fitness classes in the New York City, what to expect, and some tips for making these workouts work for you and your child:
Mind Over Matter Stroller Bootcamp
Being a first-timer I wasn't sure what to bring or expect, but I tried to keep my jogging stroller as light as possible hoping that would help. Seven moms met for the class in Central Park. All but two had infants and impressively everyone seemed raring to go. Our instructor arrived with his own set of wheels, a bike, and led us through a one-hour workout. We jogged or walked between four different stations where we would stop for a series of exercises ranging from lunges to push-ups on park benches. At each stop we had the option to get our kids out of the stroller. I was relieved when my son seemed entertained to play with sidewalk chalk or bend and touch his toes along with the group. The instructor gave us a two minute warning before leaving each location, so we could gather up the kids and take care of any baby matters. We ended with a cool down and stretch. Two days later I really felt it in my legs.
Observations on the workout:
We never ran/walked very far in distance and there was always the option to slow down to your own pace. The instructor was good about helping entertain the kids and had a good balance of both challenging us and supporting us. Class format and routine are basically the same each week, but get tougher as participants begin to advance.
$30 per single class
$150 for pack of 6 classes
Battery Park City location: New session starting in July
Central Park location: Session currently underway and available for single classes. Next session due to begin in November.
Stroller Strides
Feeling a bit more confident, the next week we tried another class with Stroller Strides. This time the majority of the kids were over one year old and the instructor turned up pushing her own stroller with her 15-month-old son on board. For the next hour she led us along park paths to a series of to 6 or 7 locations where we would stop and do different exercises, many involving resistance bands that were provided. At one point we ran up and down steps while the instructor stayed with our little ones below and timed us. Another time we sang "The Wheels on the Bus" while doing arm lifts. The children stayed in the stroller until the final fifteen minutes when we got down on the ground for a core workout and stretching. Two days later I really felt this workout in my arms.
Observations on the workout:
The instructor explained specific things that happen to our bodies during pregnancy and why certain movements and body positions can help. The class was suited to different fitness levels and there were options to incorporate more running or to make the regime a bit easier for beginners. Each week the routine changes. I was surprised that my active 18 month old seemed quite content in the stroller for most of the time.
Classes ongoing at several locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn and in New Jersey
Class prices can differ by location but mostly look like:
Class prices can differ by location but mostly look like:
Single Drop In Classes $20
Pack of 10 for $10
Also monthly or unlimited summer deals available
*First trial class is free, sign up online
Here are two other stroller workout programs offering classes in NYC:
Several different types of classes offered
Various packages available including 5 classes for $112, more pricing information at this website.
Central Park fitness class that combines pilates and cardio
Packages start at $30+ per class, and are also available at the JCC.
Tips for making stroller workouts work for you and your kids:
- You don't need a jogging stroller. It helps, but isn't necessary
- Don't hang a huge diaper bag from the handle. Cut down on your "stroller stuff" and pack only the essentials securely under the stroller.
- Items you should bring: diapers, sunscreen for you and baby, water for you and baby, plenty of snacks for baby and a towel to wipe sweat and/or lie on the ground.
- Ideas to keep your toddler entertained: Sidewalk chalk and small toy cars worked great for us. Don't bring balls or scooters or things that that roll away or will tempt your child to wander from the group.
- Arrive early and let your child out of the stroller to play before being in the stroller for the class.
Check out our classes guide for the latest in everything from Mommy & Me to after school classes.
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