How your baby’s growing:
Once your baby starts standing and cruising, you may wonder whether real shoes are necessary. Until your baby is walking around outdoors regularly, most doctors and developmental experts don’t think so. It’s normal for your baby to walk a bit bowlegged or with feet turned out, and those little tootsies may look flat. Going barefoot can help strengthen your baby’s arches and leg muscles, and feeling the textures of what’s underfoot can help with balance.

Your life: Get moving
Moving your body actually creates energy, rather than sapping it. The trick is to choose exercise that fits your schedule.

Head outside
Go for a walk, a jog, or a hike during the regular time you spend with your baby. Consider a jogging stroller or one with all-terrain wheels. While you get exercise, you’ll also be stimulating your baby’s senses and helping her development.

Take a class with your baby
Some health clubs and yoga or Pilates studios offer classes for parents with babies. Others supply childcare for infants.

Create an “exercise studio” at home
Look into home excercise equipment or DVDs and videos that you can use while your baby is napping or otherwise occupied.

Dance with your baby
Twirl around the room together — your baby will enjoy the music and the movement.
Resist shortcuts
Park farther away from your destinations than usual so you have to walk more. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator. It’s counterintuitive when you’re trying to make time to work out, but it’s good exercise.

Author and photo www.babycenter.com