Fitness Expert Geralyn Coopersmith

Even if you're already on a committed fitness routine, you'll need a workout program that will accommodate the new parent lifestyle--which means convenient, easy and in the privacy of your own home.

Expert: Geralyn Coopersmith - Meet Geralyn and our other design experts.

Some solutions:

• Exercise should be done on a wooden floor or a tightly carpeted surface to reduce shock and provide sure footing.
  
• Low-impact aerobics will burn 352 calories per hour, circuit training burns 563 calories in one hour.
  
• Design a circuit workout program that combines cardio and resistance training--three lower body cardio days and two upper body cardio days one week, the next week reverse.
  
• Work out together for 30 minutes of much-need couple time.
  
• Home Gym
  • Treadmill
    
  • Weights
    
  • Physio Ball
    
  • Mat
• Use steps at your own house, but make sure they're an appropriate width that's comfortable--and it's a good idea to hold on to a railing.
  
• Resistance training with tubing is just like resistance training with weights.
  
• If you're pregnant:
  • Tune into your own body, asking yourself how you feel.
    
  • Don't become over-heated, wear light clothing and stay hydrated.
    
  • Avoid ballistic movements like fast stepping patterns.
    
  • Avoid getting up and down from the floor.
    
  • Always work at a moderate pace so you're not exhausting yourself.
    
  • Pregnant woman can do any exercise that is low impact or not weight bearing.
    • Walking
      
    • Light Stepping on the step
      
    • Swimming
      
    • Bicycling
• Don't exercise while lying on your back; the weight of the baby can interfere with proper circulation.

Sports Authority
Reebok step, $60; Fitness Mat $10.59
www.shoprmall.com/sportsauthority