Stroller Strides program promotes women's health

In recognition of National Women's Health and Fitness Day on Wed., Sept. 26, Stroller Strides is stressing the importance for mothers to make time for regular physical activity and make smart health choices.

According to the American Heart Association, one in two women suffer from heart disease or stroke; both risks can be reduced with regular physical activity.

Stroller Strides is a 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. The program is taught by nationally certified instructors.

The classes are equally beneficial for babies, as instructors will weave songs through the workout and incorporate activities to make it fun.

Here are some tips for moms to stay in shape:

•Support. Exercising with baby is a bonding experience, but sometimes mothers need a higher level of support. Take a Stroller Stride class with a friend, neighbor or partner for added camaraderie.

•Don't be a dropout. It's easy to skip a class and have an excuse to do so, but it is important to keep exercise and fitness as a routine. By treating classes like any other appointment, fitness and exercise will become a part of a daily lifestyle.

•Nutrition is critical. Stroller Strides' website offers nutritional recipes and encourages women to talk to a nutritionist on how to maintain a healthy diet.

For information, call Kristine Lopez, Stroller Strides of Thousand Oaks, at (800) 514-1239 or visit www.strollerstrides.com.