5 Reasons to Train for a 5K with Stroller Strides

Running is a great workout! It burns calories, improves heart health, and relieves stress- all while toning and shaping up! It is do-able! A 5K is 3.1 miles= a very realistic goal. Even the busiest moms can fit in the training which is often 3-4 days/week for 20-40 minutes at a time.  Motivation to persevere! Having a training schedule and the accountability of a coach and fellow runners will get you out the door and running even on your lowest-energy day. Start a habit. Spend 8 weeks training with group runs and on your own and you’ll find that before you know it- you are a runner! Once you make running and exercising a habit you won’t want to stop. The Stroller Strides running programs are the only race training programs in the Raleigh area designed specifically for moms and they are about helping moms achieve their running goals! For more info on a training near you: Southwest Raleigh/Apex Training: http://tinyurl.com/raleighrunmamasfall2012-2-0 jen.kedrowski@strollerstrides.net, 888-389-0701 Midtown/North Raleigh Training: https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignPublic/id:1406276.11084109778/rid:a3e22480f321b5e29615b8620687e5fc missycurrin@strollerstrides.net, 888-760-0142

Instructor Spotlight: Meet Colleen!

Usually at the beginning of every month we take a moment to honor one of our Stroller Strides moms as "Mom of the Month" for her efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle. We're taking a break this month to formally introduce you to our newest Instructor with a post we're calling "Instructor Spotlight"!

Meet Colleen Gould (aka Alex's mom)! Colleen moved to Raleigh from Los Angeles, CA in the late Spring and began attending classes and substituting during Instructor vacations. Fun fact: she used to teach Stroller Strides on the beach in Los Angeles! This Fall she'll be teaching our Monday and Wednesday 9am Stroller Strides classes at the North Hills Mall.

If you've ever taken one of Colleen's classes you know that she is a seasoned and very knowledgeable Instructor. An advanced degree in Exercise Physiology and certifications in Personal Training, Group Exercise and Pilates and her sweet and welcoming personality make for fun and challenging Stroller Strides classes with a little something for every-mom!

We wanted to give you a chance to get to know Colleen a little better so we asked her our standard "Mom of the Month" questions and this is what she said:

Hometown: Mobile, Alabama
Education: BA from Loyola University New Orleans in Print Journalism, minor from Tulane University in Sports Science; MS from Middle Tennessee State in Exercise Physiology
Stroller Strides Member Since: May 2010 (in LA) and April 2011 here in Raleigh
Members of your family? My amazing husband is Andrew and y'all know Alexander (16 mo)
Current/Previous Career: Up until I had Alex I worked as an Exercise Physiologist at a Physical Therapy practice. Since Alex... I'm full-time mom with the exception of teaching Stroller Strides :-)
What was your childhood ambition? As a little girl I wanted to be a cheerleader, then a grade school teacher and then an interior designer but deep down I always knew I wanted to be a mom.
What does motherhood mean to you? Motherhood is complex! I am embracing being a mom and everything that comes with it. I love Alex's sweet demeanor, how he is passionate about bananas, and how much he loves dancing. I never expected some days to be so long, but also never expected some days to be so very cool as I watch him grow and learn new things with curiosity and amazement.
Where is the furthest you've been from home? I studied abroad in Dublin between Junior and Senior year of college.... it was like my home away from home, love it there!
What has Stroller Strides done for you? Stroller Strides has done so much for me! As a new mom looking to get back in shape and make some new mom friends, it was the perfect answer. Now as an Instructor, I enjoy sharing my enthusiasm for exercise with other moms and babes. Being outside, exercising, keeping the babies entertained... it just make sense!
What is your favorite exercise? I'm sure y'all will be shocked to read this but I've gotta go with any kind of ab work, especially after doing cardio and resistance for an hour- it's just so effective!
What is your proudest moment? Right after Alex was born, watching Andrew looking at him for the first time and feeling so blessed.
What are your three favorite things (besides your family)? Ribbons, ruffles & consignment shopping.
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or that makes you unique. I have never in my life had a sip of coffee.
If we asked your spouse what he thinks your best qualities are, what would he say? Trustworthy and sweet, but goofy!

Come try one of Colleen's classes at the North Hills Mall and introduce yourself! Your first class is always free- you can register with this link: click HERE.

The Best Workout for Every Age

In your 30's:
Maybe you used to stay slim doing sporadic workouts, but now it's time to establish a regular routine to fend off loss of bone density and flexibility.

In your 40's:
Ramp up cardio to tackle the creep of belly fat that starts this decade.

In your 50's & beyond:
It's important to dd strength training to your cardio routine to fight the dreaded "flat butt" and keep muscles firm.

(excerpted from the September 2011 issue of Health Magazine)

Why not make Stroller Strides classes or our 5K Training Program part of your routine? And bring your mom so she can avoid getting the dreaded "flat butt" :) !

Mid-Month Class & Playgroup Update

Many of you may have already received this news via your email Inbox but I want to make sure you're all getting the latest info so here it is again...

Hello Stroller Strides of Midtown Raleigh Members & Class Pass Holders!

This is a quick mid-month update to keep you all in the loop...

• Fall Schedule Changes: We're adding a new class time/location in late September! To accommodate a growing group of moms and varied sleep schedules for the little ones we're going to open a 10am class on Mondays and Wednesdays at Shelley Lake. The start date and exact location where class will meet will be forthcoming soon... stay tuned! Meanwhile, North Hills classes will continue to meet MWF at 9am. After Labor Day (Oct 6th) the NCMA Museum Park classes will move to a 9:30am start time on T/Th.

• Found: 2 New Playgroup Captains!: Sharon Morris will stay on to serve as Playgroup Captain for another 6 months and will be joined by 2 new Co-Captains; Krista Welty and Amy Ruetz. A big thank you to Nora Bray, who is stepping down at the end of this moth, for serving as our inaugural Playgroup Captain for the past year. We owe a year's worth of fun and friendship to your time and efforts- thank you for your service!

• 5K Training Program: Our "Midtown Moms on the Run" 5K Training Program will start Oct 4th and culminate in the Jingle Bell Run (5K) on Dec 3rd. Group training runs will be on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 8:30am in the Midtown/N.Raleigh area. Strollers, beginners and experienced runners welcome! There is a discount for active Stroller Strides Members & Class Pass Holders! Click HERE for more information and to access the registration form.

~ Team Stroller Strides of Midtown Raleigh ~

Training with Resistance Bands

If you've never been to a Stroller Strides class perhaps you've never had the satisfaction of working out with a resistance band. You are missing out!
Resistance bands are rubber tubes with handles on each end. They vary in the resistance they offer. At Stroller Strides of Midtown Raleigh we use the SPRI Xertube in green (less intense) and red (more intense) and if you're feeling particularly tough... both at the same time! For some reason no one has taken me up on that last option yet. Yet.

Why tubing? Easy!

• Tubes are inexpensive. At Stroller Strides classes we sell replacement tubes for just $10 (grn) or $11 (red). They are also available at many sporting goods stores and online but don't go too cheap... quality matters!
  
• Resistance tubing is very portable. My tubing has been all over the US and Mexico on family trips. Those hotel workout rooms are always a disappointment but I'm never without a means to exercise when I've brought my tubing along. Plus- seeing it in my suitcase reminds me to fit in a workout on those busy family trips!
• Tubing is versatile and effective. You can target all major muscle groups with your resistance tubing exercises. Lower body? Target your medial glutes by side stepping with both feet on the band and a handle in each hand. Upper body? Challenge your biceps by stepping on the band with one or both feet, one handle in each hand and performing a standard bicep curl. You get the idea.
  
• Its virtually impossible to achieve this look... maybe you consider that a disadvantage?

So, have I sold you on resistance bands? If you're still not sure then come join me for a Stroller Strides class and I'll show you! And if you need to replace your bands or are ready to upgrade to a higher intensity band just drop me an email: missycurrin@strollerstrides.net and I'll get you set up with a new one.

Your Words & Thoughts Have Power

Sounds like something you would tell your children, doesn't it? Well, I have an assignment for you; Pay attention to the words you use about your body and the thoughts you have throughout the day. You may be surprised at the amount of times you create negativity about your body and/or your abilities. “My butt is big”, “I can’t do this”, “This hill is too steep. I can’t do it”, “I’m fat”…any of these sound familiar? A famous quote by Henry Ford always comes to mind when thinking about the power of thought, “Whether you think you can or can’t, you are right”. There is a negative spiral that happens when our thoughts are focused on the negative, we become limited by them.

The second part of this assignment is to start a negativity boycott. Stay conscious of those times you tend be negative and turn yourself around. You will see it make a big difference in the way you feel and the way you instill new challenges on yourself. You are strong, beautiful and ever-changing, don’t be the one who limits your own possibilities!

(originally posted by Stroller Strides National Fitness Director, Farel Hruska 8/2011)

Straight From the Heart

I met this sweet mom, Holly Kryter, at my Stroller Strides Instructor training course in Washington, DC in 2010. She owns the Knoxville, TN Stroller Strides franchise and stars in this video (part of a series from their local TV station called "Straight From the Heart"). Its always fun to see what other classes are up to across the country and to hear moms talk about what it means to them to be a part of the program! Enjoy...

Free Stroller Strides Classes this week at all Midtown Raleigh locations!

Try Stroller Strides for FREE during the week of

June 20-24th, 2011!

The North Hills Mall & The NC Museum of Art Park

Stroller Strides of Midtown Raleigh would like to invite all local moms out to try our program for a full week at no charge! Join us for up to 5 classes for free. Please note: this offer is not valid for those holding an active Membership, Class Pass, or Living Social voucher.

Schedule:

• Monday, 6/20: North Hills Mall @ 9am
  


• Tuesday, 6/21: NC Museum of Art Park @ 9am
  


• Wednesday, 6/22: North Hills Mall @ 9am


• Thursday, 6/23: NC Museum of Art Park @ 9am


• Friday, 6/24: North Hills Mall @ 9am
  

Locations:

• North Hills Mall (Midtown Raleigh): Meet in front of the movie theater


• NC Museum of Art Park (Midtown Raleigh): Meet in between the East & West bldgs

Interested in signing up for Stroller Strides?

Don't miss our special Membership & Class Pass discounts--

this week only!

Commonly-Asked Questions:

What should I bring?

Please bring a sturdy stroller, a towel or mat for ab work, water, walking/athletic shoes and attire, and any toys/snacks for the little one/s as desired.

Do I need to pre-register?

You can pre-register so that your info is on file by clicking here. However you can also show up on any day (or every day!) between June 20-24th to attend class for free. We suggest arriving 10-15 minutes before the start of class.

What is Stroller Strides?

Stroller Strides is a total fitness program for moms that they can do with their baby or stroller-age child. The hour-long workout includes power walking and intervals of body toning, using exercise tubing and the stroller. Taught by nationally certified instructors who are trained in pre- and post-natal fitness, it's a great workout for any fitness level.

Fitness for Mom, Fun for Baby

In addition to providing a great full body workout for moms, we engage the children throughout our classes through songs and activities, keeping baby entertained while mom exercises. We welcome moms and babies from 6 weeks to any age that they’ll stay in a stroller (usually about 4 years old).

More than an Exercise Program

Our program also offers our Luna Mom Playgroup at no additional cost (click here for Midtown/North Raleigh area) that consists of weekly playgroups after class, monthly moms night out activities and special community events. Don't put it off any longer... come join all the Stroller Strides fun!

We hope to see you soon!

-Team Stroller Strides of Midtown Raleigh

Habits Are The Answer

How many calories should I eat?

How long should I workout?

What workouts are most effective?

What should my percent of fat to protein be?

These are the questions I get daily. But I think there's something more imporant than those answers. We all really know that we should be exercising more and eating better quality foods. And while it's good to be better educated on nutrition and exercise, I think it's more important to figure out how to make healthy habits part of your life. I know that I "should" eat more vegetables, take my vitamins and drink enough water. But my habits sometimes disconnect knowledge with action.

It doesn't matter if you know that a pound of fat is 3,500 calories if that doesn't translate in to daily habits to reduce calories. Instead, think about one thing you can work on each week and keep doing it until it becomes a habit. The definition of habit is that it is a settled regular tendency or practice, one that is hard to give up. That is key! We have bad habits that we need to give up and we have new ones that we need to add in to our life.

What habits do you have right now without even thinking about it? Setting the coffee maker, brushing your teeth, buckling your seat belt? Some have said that it takes 21 days to create a habit. That may not be magic, but commit to a certain number of days. Make it a daily habit and start with a small step. Write it down and set a trigger to remind yourself whether it's a note or an alarm for example.

Let's just say that it does take 21 days to create a new habit. If you chose just one thing to focus on every 21 days, you could add 17 new habits this year! Let's face it, we would be happy with just a few healthy new habits that truly stick! Break that insanity that comes from trying the same things over and over just to wind up with old results. Instead, focus on daily actions that can lead to the results you want.

(This post was written by Lisa Druxman and originally appeared on the Stroller Strides blog on 6/6/11)

I Challenge You To... An Advanced Plank Combination!

Our ongoing 10,000 Strides Challenge started as a result of many of you looking for some healthy competition. In April I had 2 or 3 moms in one day say to me, "I need a challenge to kick my booty into gear" (or something along those lines). So now that we're halfway through... are you ready for another challenge? One that works your core?

We did this advanced plank today in Stroller Strides class and it sure is challenging! Practice it at home (as long as you've been okay'd to exercise by your physician or midwife) and we'll do it again in class soon!

The 10,000 Strides Challenge: Week 2

On May 1st our Stroller Strides group took on the 10,000 Strides Challenge. In self-selected teams of 3 they donned pedometers and began tracking their steps on a daily basis. Their goal is to exceed 10,000 steps per day per person and keep it up all month long. The winning team will be the team with the most steps at the end of the month. The prize= very cute bamboo "Fit Moms Rock" racer-back tank tops.

Week 2 is now complete and the results are impressive! I'm so proud of all of you who have taken on the challenge and are finding ways to squeeze more steps into your already full day. On Thursday, I witnessed two moms take an extra lap around the NC Art Museum Park- one before class and one after. I've noticed that many of you have taken to parking clear across the North Hills Mall from where we begin and end class just to get more steps in. You've been taking more Stroller Strides classes and meeting each other to walk or run outside of class. It is awesome! We're halfway through the month... keep up the great work, Ladies! The cumulative team totals (week 1 + week 2) so far are:

Team Totals as of Week 2:
The Yummy Mummys: 486,391
The Happy Feet: 411,681
The Lady Goo Goo Gagas: 402,486
The 3 Mom Blondes: 355,921
The Muffin Top-less Mamas: 352,261
The Movin' Mamas: 98,552

Italicized Teams have not yet reported Week 2's step totals and therefore only show Week 1's totals above.

Keep up the good work, Teams!

The 10,000 Strides Challenge: Week 1

On May 1st our Stroller Strides group took on the 10,000 Strides Challenge. In self-selected teams of 3 they donned pedometers and began tracking their steps on a daily basis. Their goal is to exceed 10,000 steps per day per person and keep it up all month long. The winning team will be the team with the most steps at the end of the month. The prize= very cute bamboo "Fit Moms Rock" racer-back tank tops.

Week 1 was a bit of a rough start... It took a few days to get all of the pedometers calibrated for accuracy. One split apart. Another fell in the toilet. After taking all of this into consideration we began actually counting our steps on Wednesday, May 4th. So this weeks' totals include Wed- Sat. Future weekly totals should be much higher as they will include Sun-Sat. The team totals so far are:

Team Totals for Week 1:
The Yummy Mummys: 184,179
The Happy Feet: 157,167
The Lady Goo Goo Gagas: 148,330
The 3 Mom Blondes: 129,933
The Muffin Top-less Mamas: 126,256
The Movin' Mamas: 98,552

It has been so much fun to hear about how our 10,000 Strides Challengers are increasing their step totals. One walked to the grocery store for an extra 8,000 steps. Another realized that it was much easier to get her steps in when she came to Stroller Strides class! Moms met for extra walks outside of class. They marched in place in their living rooms and did late-night laps around Target. All in all... everyone moved more and worked hard to fit more steps into their busy days. Great job 10,000 Strides Challengers! I can't wait to see what next weeks' totals will be!

The Cinderella Project Dress Giveaway Day!

Our Luna Moms Club playgroup (sponsored by the makers of Luna Bars and by Stroller Strides) generally meets for fun activities for either the kids, the moms, or both. In addition to our fun activities we take a little time every quarter to do a service project and call this portion of our playgroup "Moms with a Mission". In the past we've done charity walks/runs and collected canned goods but this year our group has gone above and beyond- all thanks to the tireless energy and creativity of our Moms with a Mission Coordinator, Jennifer Anderson!


Most recently we donated formal wear to an annual event: The Cinderella Project. The dresses were collected by the Meredith College Fashion Association who organized the event to provide free prom dresses to high school students who might not otherwise be able to afford to purchase a new dress for the big night. This weekend was the culmination of The Cinderella Project- the dress giveaway and Jennifer was there at North Hills to witness all of the excitement! Below are Jennifer's observations and a few photos taken during the giveaway on Saturday, March 19th.


I stopped by The Cinderella Project dress giveaway at North Hills this morning and snapped a few pictures. There were over 50 people waiting for the doors to be opened, and they had a really good turn out.





I think they collected 240 dresses, which includes 20 from us (the Midtown Raleigh Stroller Strides moms) and 12 from the Raleigh Stroller Strides moms.



Angela's poofy electric blue dress was a huge hit and the girl who ended up getting it was so cute!




I was really glad I stopped by, since it was fun to see the girls' excitement, and to know that we helped contribute to their special day! ~Jennifer


If you want to get involved with our next Moms with a Mission project we'd love to have you join us. Our group will walk for The March of Dimes on April 30th at the March for Babies in Durham, NC on "The Bea Team". Click here for more info or email me at missycurrin@strollerstrides.net.

One way to Avoid the "Farmer's Tan"

The sun is shining on Stroller Strides classes and the farmer's tans are starting to emerge! There's nothing I can do about the white feet (shoes are required for class :)) but I can help you with the t-shirt tan lines! I'm putting in an order for some warm-weather Stroller Strides apparel and would love to include you in my order for Chocolate Brown ribbed tanks (sizes M-XXL). You've seen Alicia sport hers in class these last few months and doesn't she look great?! Now these tanks are available for just $18.99 if you order by tomorrow (March 18th).

Available in sizes M-XXL (runs small- order up one size) for $18.99 (includes shipping). The order goes in tomorrow (Friday, 3/18)! Email me ASAP if you want one missycurrin@strollerstrides.net or purchase after class tomorrow!

Cash, check, or VISA/MC accepted.

Working Out With Baby and a Stroller

Most moms take their baby for a walk in a stroller. But you can also turn that walk in to a workout! You can get a cardio workout that burns lots of calories by picking up the pace from a slow walk to a brisk “stroll” with your stroller. In this workout, you will recreate your own gym outdoors, using benches and fences along with your rubber tubing and the stroller for balance.

Any stroller will work, with the exception of an umbrella stroller (these are not designed for stability or speed.) It’s easiest to workout with a jogging stroller, which steers more easily and allows you to maintain better posture. I’ve designed the Stroller Strides Fitness Stroller by BOB. It’s made not only for intense strolling, but is equipped with a fitness kit that includes tubing for resistance exercises. Whichever stroller you choose, make sure that the wheels and construction are solid, and that baby is comfortably strapped in.

The beauty about being outside is that your child is happily distracted—and for a moment, you’re off the hook from entertaining duties. Babies under one year are absolutely fascinated with leaves blowing on a tree and clouds moving through the sky. That’s not to say that you aren’t fun to watch: In our Stroller Strides classes, half the fun for the kids is watching the mommies do silly things!

I recommend that you do a stroller workout in intervals to keep your child stimulated. So move with the stroller, walking or running, then stop every few minutes and do one or two exercises with your tube. When you are doing your exercises, turn baby to look at a busy playground, scenic park, rushing pedestrians, or whatever catches his or her fancy. Or face baby and keep up the rapport as you whip through your routine by singing songs. Research shows that you can teach toddlers new words through songs. (You may not think you are the greatest crooner in the world, but your baby sure loves your voice!)

If your baby isn’t crazy about the stroller, be patient and firm. Do what feels right, but keep in mind that if you take him out every time he whines, he’ll learn that crying is the key to getting out. Stick to a regular schedule of specific days and times when you use the stroller. Baby will soon realize, Mom takes care of me all day long and this is the one hour I’m going to be here. If you know your baby is comfortable and not hungry, don’t feel guilty about putting him in the stroller for a short time. I’ve seen hundreds of kids each day in our classes. Most babies love the workouts with mom.

Want some company? Come join us at a Stroller Strides workout. To find a class near you, go to www.strollerstrides.com.

Originally posted by Lisa Druxman on THE Stroller Strides blog- thanks, Lisa!

Just 1 Week Left to Register for our Grand Opening Event!

Join us on Tuesday, March 1st at the NC Museum of Art Park to kick-off our newest class location!

9:30am: Registration opens (click HERE to register online)

10am: FREE Stroller Strides class
11am: Raffle, Refreshments & Playgroup Time
(Raffle prizes donated by Episencial, gDiapers & Smartmomma/ERGO BabyCarrier)

What is Stroller Strides?

Stroller Strides is a total fitness program that moms can do with their babies. It includes power walking and intervals of strength and body toning exercises using exercise tubing, the stroller, and the environment. Taught by certified instructors.

Who should come to the Grand Opening?

It is a great workout for any level of exerciser. All moms of stroller-age children are welcome to attend this free event. Bring your child(ren), your stroller, a yoga mat or towel, and dress to exercise! (jogging stroller not necessary)

Location & Directions:

The Museum Park surrounds the NC Museum of Art which is located at 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, North Carolina 27607. Parking is free. Class begins and ends in the open area between the East and West Museum buildings. For more information on the Museum Park and for parking and driving directions please click HERE.

You're Invited to a Grand Opening Event!

Join us on Tuesday, March 1st at the NC Museum of Art Park to kick-off our newest class location!

9:30am: Registration opens (click HERE to register online)

10am: FREE Stroller Strides class
11am: Raffle, Refreshments & Playgroup Time

What is Stroller Strides?

Stroller Strides is a total fitness program that moms can do with their babies. It includes power walking and intervals of strength and body toning exercises using exercise tubing, the stroller, and the environment. Taught by certified instructors.

Who should come to the Grand Opening?

It is a great workout for any level of exerciser. All moms of stroller-age children are welcome to attend this free event. Bring your child(ren), your stroller, a yoga mat or towel, and dress to exercise! (jogging stroller not necessary)

Location & Directions:

The Museum Park surrounds the NC Museum of Art which is located at 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, North Carolina 27607. Parking is free. Class begins and ends in the open area between the East and West Museum buildings. For more information on the Museum Park and for parking and driving directions please click HERE.

Space Travel and Bone Density... hold the Swiss!

A few weeks ago my family was watching a PBS special about astronauts and the challenges they face in space travel and I was struck by an alarming statistic (which I'll get to in a minute). I wish I could find a link to the episode but I haven't been able to find it yet- sorry.

Anyway, one of the astronauts' challenges is living in a zero-gravity environment and the effect it has on their bone density. Humans need weight-bearing exercise to maintain bone density and the zero-gravity environment of space makes it impossible to lift weights of any sort. An astronaut doesn't even work against gravity when he space-walks or raises his arm overhead. You might be thinking... well, duh! But stay with me here... do you know how much bone density an astronaut loses over 6 months in a zero-gravity environment (despite "exercising" for 2 hours each day)? 14%. Yikes! How does he manage to walk off of the shuttle after it lands back on earth without crumbling to the ground? When I hear this statistic I pictured his bones riddled with holes, like Swiss cheese. One false step and he's got a broken hip... without a doubt an exaggeration but that is what I picture in my head.

14%- that is huge! So how important is weight-bearing exercise to maintaining healthy bone mass? So important!!! According to the Merck Manual, as women, our bone density peaks around age 30 and then it is an uphill battle to maintain it from then on. Eventual menopause only fuels the fire and thus begins the slippery slope to being frail little old ladies.

So how can we fight against bone loss and be strong moms? Make sure you are taking in adequate calcium and Vitamin D and incorporate weight-bearing exercise into your exercise routine. Join us at Stroller Strides for a full body workout that includes plenty of weight-bearing exercise and stay strong and fit for motherhood and all that lies ahead!

Stroller Strides Sweetheart Special

Looking for a Valentine's Day gift for the moms in your life with young children?

Or a great 'wish list' idea for yourself?

Take advantage of our Stroller Strides Sweetheart Special... just in time for Valentine's Day! Between now and February 14th purchase a 10-Class Pass for only $99 (regular price- $110).

No need for gift receipts, worrying about sizes or colors or what someone already has--this is a gift that ALL moms will appreciate, that allows them to feel healthy, get in shape, meet other moms, AND have fun with their baby or stroller-aged children!

You can purchase Stroller Strides of Midtown Raleigh 10-Class Pass online via Paypal (see below-no account required) or by calling 888-760-0142, ext. 1. You will receive a follow-up email with instructions for redemption.

We currently offer classes 3 days/week (Mon, Wed & Fri), in the Midtown Raleigh area and will add Tues/Thurs classes to the schedule in March.

Stroller Strides is a total body workout program that moms can do with their stroller-aged children. The workouts include cardio, strength training, and abdominal work, plus songs and fun for the kids. Stroller Strides of Midtown Raleigh offers classes at the North Hills Mall and will open at the NC Museum of Art Park in March. Gift certificates are valid through 8/30/11. We also offer a weekly playgroup and monthly moms night out for moms in the Triangle area.

For more information about Stroller Strides of Midtown Raleigh, see www.strollerstrides.net/midtownraleigh.

Questions? Contact missycurrin@strollerstrides.net, 888-760-0142.

How are we doing on those New Year's Resolutions, Mom?

As we enter into the second half of January 2011, take stock of the resolutions you made just 2 short weeks ago. How are you doing? If you have veered away from your plan maybe it is because you have taken your eyes off your goal. If you have intended to obtain a certain level of fitness, lose weight, eat healthier or any other goal for 2011, it is crucial to keep that goal in front of you throughout your day…everyday.

One of the goals we have here at Stroller Strides is that moms take care of themselves so they can be FIT FOR MOTHERHOOD! With that goal in mind, here is an exercise which targets very functional muscles in motherhood. Give it a try!

When we make decisions with our goal in mind, we find ourselves there faster! Stay focused and you WILL accomplish what you set out to!

Original blog post written by Lisa Druxman, CEO and Chief Founding Mother of Stroller Strides