Treasure Valley Stroller Strides

On Guilt

2010-05-18T19:07:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine is going in tomorrow morning to be induced, and welcome her third daughter into the world. I called her today: How was she feeling? Anxious? Excited? Scared? Calm? (After all, it IS her third!). But her answer surprised me: She was feeling guilty.

Guilty that she was choosing to accept induction, rather than wait to go into labor naturally, though her baby is is an unfortunate "stuck" position. Guilty that her discomfort and agonizing is not the chipper mood she wanted to set for her two little girls before their sister arrives. So much guilt. It made me want to give her a hug, and then go shake some sense into her! What an unfortunate way to be feeling, the day before welcoming a new little baby into the world.

But then I realized that I had been beating myself up just the day before, because I hadn't spent time doing the prescribed physical therapy moves with my own four-month-old. The day was busy and time just got away from us, and that night I kicked myself for not taking just 15 minutes to practice the moves that will help with her strength.

I doubt any of us, when we made that momentous decision to become a mother, thought to ourselves, "I can't wait to have someone to nuzzle, someone to influence, someone to laugh with, someone with the ability to make me feel completely inadequate as a human being."

No, the reason we do what we do, why we are who we are, is based solely on one terrific and resounding truthful emotion: pure, sheer, ridiculous LOVE.

Will my Mirabel grow up not ever being able to hold up her head? Will Dee's daughters be forever traumatized because she wasn't skipping through the park with them the day before their sister's arrival? No. Our children are so very fortunate to have us as their mothers, to guide them and fill them with this true love. What we need to remember to do is take the time to love ourselves!

And that is reason # 746 I love Stroller Strides (reasons 1 through 745 have to do with the camaraderie, the wonderful example I'm setting for my child, and the overall feeling of accomplishment I have after completing a class). Reason 746 is that, with the help of Stroller Strides, I love ME. I feel strong in my body, clear in my mind, and content in my soul knowing that I am doing something so good for myself, and, in turn, so good for my babies.

And that makes the guilt a lot more manageable. It's still there, but I don't lose as much sleep when, say, my three-year-old pulls down her pants and goes peepee on the lawn at her own birthday party. She's a happy, thriving little girl, and it's my goal to be the same.

Go hug your kids, and then give yourself a pat on the back. You're doing a great job, and you're a wonderful mommy.

2010 Healthy Momma Challenge!

2010-04-14T14:35:00.000-07:00

For the third year in a row, we started off the year with the Healthy Momma Challenge. Six teams of three got involved in some *healthy* competition for a 12-week challenge that earned each mama points for taking steps to focus on their Mind, Body, and Spirit.

Mamas earned points for things like taking a bath by themselves, eating fruits and vegetables, meditating, and, of course, coming to Stroller Strides classes! The end totals were in the THOUSANDS. I am so impressed with these strong, healthy, lovely women!

The Sizzlin' Senoritas came in First Place!

Let's hear it for the Mighty Mamas!

The Goofy Booties got inspired!

Way to go, Mommas!

I'm already looking forward to next year!

2010-01-04T14:41:00.000-08:00

January Newsletter is Ready!

2010-01-04T14:39:00.000-08:00

Check out this month's newsletter! Contact emilyn@strollerstrides.net to subscribe!

Calling All Pregnant Mommies!

2009-12-29T13:30:00.000-08:00

I am currently 36 weeks pregnant and I feel amazing! Though it's getting a bit harder to tie my shoes and I'm getting up to use the bathroom four times a night, I feel comfortable in my body and I know I'm growing a healthy baby.

Why do I feel so awesome? Two words: STROLLER STRIDES! By attending these great classes that focus on the physical and emotional needs of new moms and mommies-to-be, I feel confident that I am doing my best to get my body ready for the new bundle that will be arriving in a few short weeks!

I am pleased to announce that Fit4Baby is coming to the Treasure Valley!

Fit4Baby is a nationally recognized prenatal fitness program brought to you by Stroller Strides. This one-hour class is designed to help strengthen the body and get it ready for the "event" of labor and delivery, all while helping to reduce the aches, pains, and fatigue that are often associated with pregnancy.

This class is child free and stroller free. Come meet other expecting mamas from the area, get - or stay - in shape, and have fun! You can begin Fit4Baby as soon as you discover you're pregnant and can attend class up until "the big day!"

Our GRAND OPENING celebration will feature cool goodie bags, amazing membership offers, and an incredible raffle featuring prizes from the following retailers, plus much more!

* BOB Strollers
* The Stylish Stork
* Luna Bar
* Happy Baby Organic Baby Food
* Rafiki Indoor Play Center
* Shu's Idaho Running Company
* Stroller Strides

Spread the word and tell your friends!

Please bring comfortable workout clothes, water, a mat or towel for ground exercises and meditation, and a smile! I hope to see you there; please contact emilyn@strollerstrides.net with any questions!

Mark your calendars for this fun and fabulous event!

Fit4Baby Grand Opening

Saturday, January 9th, 2010

10:00 a.m.

Parkcenter Mall

Boise, ID

Welcome to Our Newest Member!

2009-12-24T06:50:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Stroller Strides mama Ashley, who welcomed 9 lb, 12 oz Kai on December 23rd!

We Love Stroller Strides!

2009-12-18T09:54:00.001-08:00

Looking for a Great Gift? Give the Gift of Fitness!

2009-12-04T20:29:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year!

For a limited time, we're offering a Holiday Special. For just $195, you can give that special mama in your life the perfect gift - the gift of fitness!

What is Stroller Strides?

Stroller Strides is a fitness program that moms can do with their babies/toddlers. Classes are 1 hour long and include power walking/jogging with intervals of toning exercises using exercise tubing, the stroller, and the environment. Taught by certified instructors (who are also moms), it is a GREAT workout for any level of exerciser!

What do you get for $195?

* Registration fee ($75 Value)
* 3 Months Dues (Jan-March. Valued at $150)
* Stroller Strides Gear - Including tee shirt, water bottle, and exercise tubes

Offer valid for first time participants only and through 12/31/09.

Vendor of the Month: Shady Lane Studios

2009-12-02T20:20:00.001-08:00

I am pleased to announce that Lauren Harms of Shady Lane Studios and Ooh Lala Photo is once again our Vendor of the Month!

Lauren will be offering specials for local Stroller Strides and Luna Moms Club members throughout the month of December!

Lauren specializes in newborn/infant, family, maternity, and fairy tale portraits that are truly magical. At the end of the month, Lauren is offering a gift certificate for a FREE session!

2009-11-25T20:02:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holidays...

Saturday classes return to Boise!

** Please join us for a special Butterball Buster class **

Jump out of your food coma and into fitness!

This class is FREE for all participants!

Saturday, November 28th

9:30 a.m.

Park Center Mall

Boise, Idaho

Welcome to Our Newest Member!

2009-11-23T20:24:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to Stroller Strider Meggan, who welcomed 8 1/2 pound Hudson on Friday!

"Fall"ing for Autumn in Idaho!

2009-11-17T20:09:00.000-08:00

Stroller Strides and Luna Moms Club have been having so much fun this season!

When the last week of October proved too chilly to continue classes outdoors, we moved the annual Halloween party inside! Cutie-patooties galore!

We crafted some sweet pinecone owls at a playgroup last week. The kiddos (and mamas!) seemed to really enjoy creating these festive feathered friends!

Rake Up Boise was a great success again this year! We had a wonderful turnout and were able to fill 38 leaf bags in under an hour! Way to go, team!

The *big game* last week let our mamas show their true fan colors at our "Football Frenzy" Stroller Strides class! We had an equal number of BSU and U of I supporters - who took some time out from their friendly rivalry to do some kick lines for us!

Now that it's getting colder, we're searching for indoor playgroup spots! So this week we headed to the Idaho Discovery Center! What a great way to give the little ones some hands-on, exploratory fun!

Now that we're heading in to December, we've got some fun holiday happenings ahead!

November Newsletter is Ready!

2009-11-09T22:25:00.001-08:00

Our beautiful new newsletter is ready! You can view an online version of it here.

November Vendor of the Month: Take Shape for Life

2009-11-03T12:44:00.000-08:00

In the last two months, my husband John has lost 25 pounds! Yes, 25 pounds in just two months! It’s all thanks to health coach Bill Bryan and the local Take Shape for Life program.

Bill is excited to be our local Vendor of the Month and is offering some great deals for any family members, friends, or coworkers of Stroller Strides mamas who may want to learn more about healthy living and eating habits. As a personal health coach, Bill is there every step of the way, and wants to see who can use his professional guidance during the holiday season! At the end of the month, Bill is offering a FREE MONTH of Medifast meals to one lucky participant! Please contact Emily for more information.

Join Our Team for Rake Up Boise!

2009-11-02T13:59:00.000-08:00

Treasure Valley Stroller Strides and Luna Moms Club will once again be participating in Rake Up Boise this year! Please join our team for this wonderful community volunteer event, in which we'll grab our rakes, families, and helpful spirits to clean up the yard of an elderly Boise citizen.

Check out these pictures from last year's event, and please contact Emily at emilyn@strollerstrides.net to RSVP!

Winter Session Begins!

2009-11-01T20:53:00.001-08:00

Stroller Strides classes are moving INDOORS!

Please join us for our Winter Season of

Fitness for Mom, Fun for Baby!

Winter Session

M - F

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Boise Towne Square

Lower Level, by Sears

Your first class is FREE!

For more information, visit

www.strollerstrides.net/boise

* Membership Specials offered throughout the month of November!

* Indoor Saturday classes begin November 14th!

* Weekly Play Groups and Monthly Moms' Nights Out!

Please contact emilyn@strollerstrides.net with your questions!

Stroller Strides Conference 2009 - "Make a Diffference"

2009-10-25T14:30:00.001-07:00

Emily and Dawn attended the Stroller Strides National Conference in San Diego October 14-17. What an amazing experience! There were dozens of franchisees and instructors from all over the country who came to participate in a few days' worth of inspirational academy courses, lectures from informed presenters, and, of course, intense workouts!!

Most of our classes were actually outdoors, along the marina near Sea World and the beautiful harbor. Of course, I didn't bring my camera on those days.

The overall theme for this year's conference was "Make a Difference." It was inspired by the story of a little girl who was walking along the sea shore, tossing starfish that had washed onto the beach back into the waves. I man running by stopped and asked why she was doing that. "There are millions of starfish on the beach," he said, "You can't possibly make a difference!" The little girl picked up one starfish, tossed it into the sea, and said, "It made a difference to that one."

This is such a sweet and powerful message, and a reminder that we all have it in us to make a positive difference in the world by even the smallest gestures. Remember, to the world you may be just one person, but to one person, you may be the world!

Where's Dawn??

Rachel and I went to PRESCHOOL together in Boise! Now, she owns a successful Stroller Strides franchise in Portland! It was great to catch up!

Here's to another fabulous year of Stroller Strides, Luna Moms Club, and - soon! - Fit4Baby here in the Treasure Valley.

Updated Membership Policies

2009-10-22T20:33:00.000-07:00

Our Membership Policies have been updated. You can view them by visiting our local Stroller Strides website, or by clicking here. Thanks for your continued support of our great program! Please contact Emily with any questions.

Survey Time!

2009-10-01T09:41:00.001-07:00

Hi Mamas! Please take a moment to fill out a quick survey. We appreciate your input as we strive to make this the BEST Stroller Strides experience ever!

Click Here to take survey

Fun Pic of the Week

2009-09-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

The passing of the torch at a fun playgroup -Toddler Olympics!! Remember to check out ALL our fun pictures here!!

Fun Pic of the Week

2009-09-11T07:41:00.001-07:00

Claire proudly shows off the wooden "O" she made for her daughter at August's Moms' Night Out -- Get Crafty Night! More pictures are up on our Picasa site.

September Newsletter is Ready!

2009-09-10T18:58:00.001-07:00

The September newsletter is ready and can be viewed here.

September Vendor of the Month: Shu's Idaho Running Company

2009-09-01T13:33:00.000-07:00

If you haven't yet had an opportunity to go visit Mike "Shu" Shuman at the Idaho Running Company, you should run, jog, or sprint right over!

Shu's Idaho Running Company offers the friendliest, most knowledgeable sales staff around, and "Shu" is always willing to lend a smile and a friendly hug.

Shu's has been supporting the Treasure Valley Stroller Strides program since we opened three years ago, and has offered support, prizes, and motivation for all of us through our Get Fit Challenge, Healthy Mama Challenge, and even with goodies in our New Member Bags!

This month, Mike and his staff will be offering special incentives for Stroller Strides and Luna Moms Club members. So be sure so run in, and thank him for supporting us!

Shu's Idaho Running Company is located at 17th and State.

Meridian Classes Have Begun!

2009-08-31T13:25:00.000-07:00

A giant Thank You to all the mommies - both new and experienced! - who showed up to help us celebrate our new Meridian class location at Settler's Park on Friday and Saturday!

We had a wonderful turnout on both days, and I'm so excited about bringing this new venue to our already stellar lineup of Stroller Strides classes!

The Meridian Weekender meets on Fridays and Saturdays at 9:30 a.m., and will run through November 14th.

Don't forget to check out all our pictures here!

Introducing: The Meridian Weekender!

2009-08-23T20:01:00.000-07:00

We are thrilled to announce the Treasure Valley's newest Stroller Strides class offering:

The Meridian Weekender!

Fridays and Saturdays at Settlers Park in Meridian (located at the corner of Ustick and Meridian Roads)

9:30 a.m

August 28 - November 14, 2009

***

Please join us for our

GRAND OPENING

on Saturday, August 29th

9:30 - 11:00 a.m.

Settlers Park

***

A full, FREE Stroller Strides class, fun, food, and prizes will be offered!

** Enter to win a FREE 10 Class Pass ~ A $100 Value! **

There will also be a "sneak peek" class on Friday, August 28th. Come meet the instructors and other awesome local mommies, and participate in a full class!

RSVP to emilyn@strollerstrides.net and feel free to contact me with your comments and questions. I look forward to seeing you there!

Fun Pic of the Week

2009-08-17T20:48:00.001-07:00

Painting the town wet! The kiddos have fun at our "Water Painting" playgroup!

August Newsletter is Ready!

2009-08-14T14:43:00.000-07:00

To see the August newsletter, click here.

A Plug for our Vendor of the Month

2009-08-13T21:46:00.000-07:00

Our family took advantage of Lauren Harms's great offer to Stroller Strides moms for family portraits! As always, I think her shots turned out great. You can see some of the pictures from our family shoot on Lauren's blog. Pick up your coupons at Stroller Strides class, or contact me for more information!

Fun Pic of the Week

2009-08-04T21:51:00.001-07:00

Summer girls Kathryn, Eliza, and Kennedy enjoy watching their mommies having fun and getting fit!

Fun Charity Opportunity!

2009-08-04T21:38:00.000-07:00

Hey mamas... One of our own, Andrea, passed along this great shopping, er... charity event. I think it sounds like a lot of fun. We all love some nice comfy jeans in the Fall!

Look Good and Do Better
Charity Designer Denim Sale

Cool weather is just around the corner and that means it is time for that new pair of jeans. What better way to look good than to help out a pair of good causes at the same time?

The Kappa Alpha Theta Boise Alumnae Chapter and Charity Denim are hosting a designer denim sale on August 29th, 2009 at the Hampton Inn and Suites in downtown Boise from 11am-4pm.

Both men’s and women’s jeans of all sizes will be on hand. Brands available will be Seven for all mankind, Hudson, Joes, Red Engine, Citizens, Blue Cult. Prices will range from $35-$85 each pair.

All major credits cards accepted. Changing rooms will be available. Come early for best selection!

All money raised will go to support the 3rd and 4th Judicial District of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and the Kappa Alpha Theta Foundation.
www.charitydenim.com

Vendor of the Month: Shady Lane Studios

2009-08-01T20:24:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to announce our Vendor of the Month program! Each month, one of our favorite local vendors will be offering special offers and discounts for Stroller Strides and Luna Moms Club members!

August's Vendor of the Month is the fabulously talented Lauren Harms of Shady Lane Studios and Ooh La La Photography.

I have had many opportunities to work with Lauren in the past and am always amazed by the quality of her work and her vision. Lauren specializes in newborn and child portraits, families, maternity, and has a special love for fairy/pixie/sprite photographs that are truly magical.

As you can see, some of our mommies have already enjoyed some special sessions with Lauren!

I am a believer that professional portraits are one of those things that are absolutely worth it, especially when the photographer has such an amazing eye and a "way" with children, and can really work some magic with Photoshop and cropping. During the month of August, Lauren will be offering some spectacular savings for you! Be sure to pick up your coupons and do your part in making some family memories!

Check out the AMAZING specials Lauren will be offering -- Just for Stroller Strides and LMC mommas!

-- $50 Off Any Family Portrait Package AND a Free 11x14 Portrait. A $125 Value! -

There will also be a fabulous raffle item at the end of the month: A Family Session and a Free 11x14. A $175 Value!

Thank you for supporting Shady Lane Studios and other great local businesses!

Fun Pic of the Week

2009-07-26T20:02:00.000-07:00

Brooke triumphantly high-fives teammate Christina during the Clothes Relay on Games Day!

Just Three Words...

2009-07-26T19:53:00.000-07:00

Okay, mamas, here's your chance to share your love of our Stroller Strides program... and be featured on our local website!

Your assignment: In just three words, let us know why you love Treasure Valley Stroller Strides! Your three words can also be about how you feel during/after class, what made you join, the benefits you see... anything!

Submit your responses by clicking on the "comments" section of this post by July 31st. Your answers just may appear on our local website (unless you don't want them to)!

I can't wait to see your creative minds at work... 3 words can be a challenge!!

Photo Mania!

2009-07-23T19:48:00.000-07:00

Inspirational, fun, sweet, silly... and caught on camera! Be sure to check out the latest pictures from our Treasure Valley Stroller Strides adventures here.

Please Welcome our Two Newest Members!

2009-07-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Stroller Striding mamas Erin and Connie, who welcomed a daughter and a son this month!

Keegan was born on July 2nd! Congratulations to Connie and big brother Travis!

Sophie was born on July 13th! Congratulations to Erin and big sister Grace!

July Newsletter is Ready!

2009-07-06T19:45:00.001-07:00

Click here to see our July newsletter!

A, Like, Totally Awesome Class

2009-06-27T12:21:00.000-07:00

On Friday, June 26th, we had an all-80's-themed dance class. What a blast!

Since Michael Jackson passed away the night before, and since I know his music certainly shaped the 80's childhoods of many of us, all the music that day was by Jacko -- including hits such as Bad, Billie Jean, and Beat It.

Mamas came ready for a totally rad time, decked in leg warmers, side pony tails, and - yes, even a few leotards.

We were sweatin' to the 80's with moves from the Molly Ringwold to the running man to the Robot, and it was, like, so cool.

Excellent job, mamas!

Fun Pic of the Week

2009-06-27T12:13:00.000-07:00

Robot. 'Nuff said.

Family Class and Picnic!

2009-06-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, June 20th, we had our Family Class and Picnic in honor of Father's Day.

Daddies, uncles, and even grandmas were on hand to participate in a fun Stroller Strides workout at Veteran's Memorial Park, and everyone brought a delicious potluck-style item to share afterwards!

I hear there were a lot of sore daddies the next few days!

Thanks for coming out on a weekend to show your support of Stroller Strides, get your families involved, and best of all -- give us an opportunity to wish all our wonderful husbands and dads a Happy Father's Day!

Lean Mommy: The Golden Rules of Good Nutrition

2009-06-09T19:14:00.000-07:00

When you're consumed with mommyhood, you may feel too busy to eat right or follow a diet. Or you may not know where to begin if you are restricted from dieting because you are breastfeeding, or because all the information can seem overwhelming! Lisa Druxman's book Lean Mommy sets some simple guidelines that will help you to not only make healthy eating choices and turn them into habits, but to know why these choices are the best ones for you and your family.

Rule Number One: GO FOR COLOR

One easy way to take in the variety of nutrients that you and your family need is to make every meal as colorful as possible. Nutrients in plants known as phytochemicals are often found in the pigment that gives food its hue. So create a plate that has plenty of green, red, orange, and yellow foods. Healthful beans and grains and meats, poultry, and fish will add neutral shades of white, beige, brown, and pink.

Rule Number Two: GET A HANDLE ON PORTION SIZES

Every food has calories So, in theory, if you eat too much of anything, you can gain weight. (But I'm still looking for the person who got fat eating too many strawberries and oranges.) The truth is, fresh foods usually have lots of fiber and so it's hard to eat too much of them. Processed foods like pasta, animal products like cheese and oils, on the other hand, are calorically dense, which makes it easy to overload on them. Learn what a sensible portion really is. (And no, it's not the two-foot-wide plate you're given at some family restaurants!) Read the labels and notice if the foods says three servings for the whole can or box you were about to eat.

Rule Number Three: KNOW YOUR GOOD CARBS FROM YOUR BAD CARBS

Plant ingredients like wheat grains that have been processed into manufactured foods like pasta or bread are known as bad carbs. High-sugar foods are, too. These foods are broken down quickly and tend to be absorbed into the body very quickly, too. This is not a problem unless you are overweight and inactive and are glucose intolerant. Then too much insulin may be released to help carry the glucose into the cells of your body that use it for energy. Over time, this overload can lead to diabetes. ... You will always make a better choice when you choose brown rice over white rice or whole grain bread over white.

Rule Number Four: PICK PROTEIN CAREFULLY

Protein is the term for the different amino acids. There are 11 amino acids that cannot be made within the body, so they must come from food. If you eat a variety of healthy food, you'll have no trouble obtaining all the needed amino acids. That's why a vegetarian will have no problem getting enough protein if she eats a healthy range of foods. Animal foods - meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy - contain all eleven of these amino acids. They are called "complete" for that reason. But research shows that we should take in a higher proportion of protein from plant foods that from animal foods. So when you think protein, don't just think meat, think vegetables, nuts, beans and grains, too. When eating animal protein sources, go for organic, grass-fed, low-fat, and/or lean when you can.

Rule Number Five: CHOOSE GOOD FATS

Not only are fats yummy, some are beneficial to your health. Animal fats in meats, poultry, and dairy products are mostly saturated fats since they have a chemical structure that makes them solid. That's why you can cut off a piece of fat from a steak or slice through butter or cheese. Less than 10 percent of the fat you eat should be saturated. Unsaturated fats are found in all foods, but are predominant in plant food. They have been shown to help reduce, not raise, your levels of bad cholesterol (your LDLs) and raise levels of your good cholesterols (HDLs). So that's why, even though foods like olives, avocados, and nuts can have a high percentage of fat, they're still great for you.

Unsaturated fats tend to be liquid (sunflower, walnut, olive, and corn oils). Trans fats are good fats gone bad. Food manufacturers take a healthy oil, like soybean oil, and modify it in a process called hydrogenization so that it becomes solid, and more like saturated fat. Think Crisco or margarine. It's cheap and has a longer shelf life. That's why most fast food restaurants and big companies that make packaged foods use loads of the stuff. The fact is, no known about of trans fat is considered safe. The best way to avoid it is to stop eating processed, packaged foods. If you do eat packaged foods, look for 0 grams of trans fat on the label.

Lean Mommy: Tubes and You

2009-06-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

We LOVE our tubes! These resistance bands, specially designed by SPRI for Stroller Strides classes, are instrumental in our classes, and I always love finding new ways to utilize these great workout tools.

As I mentioned in our June Newsletter, it's time for you to conduct your summer tube inspections. Please be on the lookout for any signs of wear and tear, including fraying, splitting, holes, or cracks. I will be ordering new tubes next week; let me know if you'll be needing any.

From Lisa Druxman's book Lean Mommmy, here are some important tube reminders.

TUBING TECHNIQUES AT A GLANCE:

Hold handles with a loose grip. Don't squeeze.

Keep wrists in neutral during exercises.

Tighten slack by shortening tube or pulling it further to keep sufficient resistance.

Like any other exercise, breathe! The general rule is to exhale on exhertion.

SAFETY FIRST!

Inspect exercise tubing before each use for worn spots, nicks, or tears. Discontinue use if damaged.

For excercises that require you attach tubing to something stable, use only a sturdy pole, beam, or fence. NEVER use the stroller or a chair.

Avoid exposing tubing to extreme heat or cold; never leave it in water or direct sunlight.

Avoid using tubing on rough or abrazsive surfaces.

Never pull tubing directly toward your face.

Never pull tubing in the direction of your child.

Never stretch exercise tubing more than three times its length. (If you can stretch the tube this far, you need a heavier-strength tube.)

A tube can break at any time while you use it. So use good judgement when exercising around baby, and be cautious if you are carrying baby in a front-pack carrier.

CHANGING INTENSITY WITH AN EXERCISE TUBE:

You can make and exercise hard or easier in several ways:

Use different sizes of tubes.

Shorten the tube to make it harder or lengthen the tube to make it easier (i.e., wrap the tube around your hand once or twice, or grip it closer or farther from middle).

Move both arms at the same time instead of one at a time.

When performing an exercise that involves standing on the tube, stand with one or both feet to adjust the tension.

Add balance to an exercise by lifting up one foot. Adding balance triggers more action from your core muscles to hold yourself steady.

Lean Mommy is on sale now! Click here to order Lean Mommy from strollerstrides.com!

Fun Pic of the Week

2009-06-04T07:20:00.001-07:00

Little Kennedy shows off her fancy new bracelet after our cereal craft on Wednesday!

And the Winner is...

2009-06-03T18:06:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS to Dawn Simpson, the winner of this year's Get Fit Challenge!

Dawn has been incredibly dedicated to her healthy lifestyle choices over the last few months. She shows up for Stroller Strides classes at least twice a week and makes healthy choices at home with her family (which includes daughters Chloe, 4, and Hailee, 17 months, and husband Brian). She even trained to run the Susan G. Komen run last month and made great time!

Dawn's improvements were marked: She held her plank 30 seconds longer, her shuttle run was 1 second faster, she did 15 more pushups, and... drumroll please.... she beat her mile time by a whopping 3 minutes, 33 seconds!

Way to go, Dawn! You truly are doing a great job making strides in fitness, motherhood, and life!

Dawn Simpson shows off her winning prizes, which included a Luna Moms Club cap and a fabulous gift bag provided by Shu's Idaho Running Company!

Runners Up:

All our mamas showed improvements in each area of testing. Here are the runners up. Incredible job, mamas!

Plank (tie):
Christina Babin - 30 seconds longer
Dawn Simpson - 30 seconds longer

Pushups:
Claire Boyd - 21 more pushups (Amazing! Claire went from ONE pushup in February to 22 in May!)

Shuttle Run (tie):
Courtney Troutner - 10 second faster
Melissa Bollinger - 10 seconds faster

I am so proud of each and every one of you, and you should be proud of yourselves! If you didn't make it to today's awards ceremony don't worry; there are prizes involved for EVERY PARTICIPANT and I'll be sure you receive yours!

Lean Mommy: A Great Resource!

2009-06-02T11:39:00.001-07:00

I know many of you have seen the great book Lean Mommy by Lisa Druxman, the founder of Stroller Strides.

This book is chock-full of ways to get in shape and bond with your baby, as well as ways to eat right, beat the baby blues, and even exercise while baby-wearing! Over the course of the next few weeks, we'll be bringing you some tips, tricks, insights, and even recipes excerpted from the book. If you don't have a copy yet, let me know and I can order you one!

This week's excerpt: No more excuses! - or, the Power of Positive Thinking

Our every behavior stems from the desire to feel good or avoid feeling bad. If you think of healthy eating and working out as painful, and eating cookies and sitting on the couch as pleasurable, then you will choose to snack and sit. But if you can redefine your thoughts so that you think of being active as invigorating and eating well as energizing, as well as thinking that eating cookies is self-defeating, and not getting a daily dose of movement makes you sluggish, then you're likely to choose to engage in healthy lifestyle habits.

Imagine scenes from your life where you consistently react in a negative way that becomes self-defeating. Create a more positive response that will help you make the healthiest lifestyle choices. Practice changing your mental tapes every single day until those new thoughts become your new tapes. For example:

I hope to see you in class soon!

Mom's Night Out: Shopping!

2009-05-31T18:26:00.000-07:00

This past Thursday night, our Luna Moms Club Mom's Night Out was a Clothing Swap. Courtney had her home set up like a retail store - complete with kids clothing organized by size and gender, maternity clothing organized by time of year, and even a clothing rack in the middle of her living room!

We all got to peruse a fantastic selection of clothes, which ranged in size from newborn to size 5, and walked away with gift bags bulging!

Many thanks to all the mamas who contributed so generously to our fun night of "shopping" - and special thanks to Courtney for hostessing and providing refreshments! What a great idea!

For June's Mom's Night Out, we'll be going to Alive After Five in downtown Boise on the 17th. This is a great music program that runs on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer months. I'm looking forward to it!

You can find more info on our upcoming events on our Meetup calendar. Haven't joined our Meetup site yet? Click here - it's free to join and a great way to find out what's coming up next!

Summer is Heating Up!

2009-05-28T12:58:00.001-07:00

Ah, warm weather has finally come to the Boise area! Summer is nearly here and it barely feels like we got to enjoy Spring. Next week school is out, which 'officially' starts the summer season - travel, swimming, picnics in the park, vacations, BBQs....the list goes on. I can't wait!

However, one of the drawbacks of our summer weather is the sometimes intense heat. The heat can sometimes make us feel like limiting our outdoor activities to stay inside and enjoy the comforts of A/C. But, don't let it trap you indoors! If you plan for it - you can still enjoy being outdoors doing the things you love. Some ideas to help combat the heat outdoors:

1. Start early! Plan for the heat and realize that the middle of the day heat into the late afternoon can be the most intense. So, if you plan your activities early in the morning you'll get a jump start on beating the heat!

2. Be prepared! Always pack plenty of water for you and your little ones. Stash water bottles in the bottom of the stroller and never be caught without it. Especially if you're exercising in the heat your liquids will deplete sooner than in average tempartures. Be prepared with plenty of liquids.

3. Dress appropriately! If you're out in the morning when it is still cool, dress in layers. As the weather heats up you can peel off the layers to cool down. Don't dress your little ones too warmly either. Remember the hats & sunglasses too!

4. Sunscreen up! Don't forget that precious lotion at home. Apply before heading outside and during your activities out as it does wear off. Remember to keep the little ones in sunscreen too - their skin is even more tender than ours. The sunscreen sticks are a great way to get sunscreen on their faces and ears without too much 'stickiness' on their skin.

5. Cool it down! A trick to keep yourself cool during your daily exercise, is to pack along a spray bottle. Fill it up with ice cold water before leaving home, pack it in your stroller and use it to mist yourself and your little one during your workout. Another helpful tip is to take a washcloth and soak it in water. Put the wet washcloth in a Ziplock bag with extra water and freeze it. On your way out the door grab your ice cold bag and throw it in your stroller. While you're out, use your ice cold washcloth to help cool you down. Works wonders!

Hopefully these little quick and easy tips will help you be prepared for a great Summer outdoors. Bring on the heat!

- Contributed by Kara V.

Fun Pic of the Week

2009-05-26T21:35:00.000-07:00

Melissa puts the finishing touches on Ella's tiny hand print at our Mother's Day Craft!

Don't forget to check out our Treasure Valle Stroller Strides photo album!

Get Fit Challenge Has Ended!

2009-05-25T19:27:00.001-07:00

It has been 13 weeks since we started our Get Fit Challenge, and now it's time to test ourselves again to see how far we've come!

Back in February, fourteen moms signed up for the Get Fit Challenge, and each mom participated in a variety of activities, including the Plank (hold for as long as possible), a Shuttle Run (run 30 paces and back, twice, in your best time), Push Ups (as many as possible), and Running a Mile (time yourself).

Over the course of the last 13 weeks, these moms have had a chance to work themselves and get fit by coming to Stroller Strides classes and making healthy choices at home.

This week, we'll "re-test" all the participants and see what kinds of improvements have been made! Prizes will go to the mamas with the most overall improvements!!

Congratulations to Amber, Ashley, Christina, Courtney, Claire, Dawn, Erin, Jennie, Katie, Melissa, Becky, Andrea, Calley, and Kara. I'm proud of you!

Fun Pic of the Week

2009-05-18T21:28:00.000-07:00

Ashley shows off her Easter spirit with Bunny socks!

Mother's Day Open House!

2009-05-07T15:12:00.000-07:00

We had our fist annual Mother's Day Open House this year on May 6th. What a great turnout, despite the rainy conditions! We had over 30 mommies in attendance, including 17 of our very own monthly membership and 10-class pass holders. Way to go, mamas! Thanks so much for showing up to offer your support for our great program.

Furthermore, Kayna Whitworth from the local CBS 2 News was on hand to do a great story about our local Stroller Strides. Check it out!