Fit Momma!

As the seasons change, so does the weather here in Michigan, which in turn jeopardizes a lot of your fitness plans! No longer do we get to take long strolls in the nice warm weather, grill healthy meats or purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from our local farmers market! Here are some great tips to refreshing your health and fitness plan!

1. Get moving mama! Just go for it.....join a gym! I'm sure the first thing you're thinking is "I'll have to find childcare." Or maybe the whole thing just sounds like a bit much for you at this time in your life. Well, low and behold, Lifetime Fitness offers free childcare to it's members. E-mail ninemonthsandforever@hotmail.com with your name and address and I will send you a free FIVE DAY PASS to a Lifetime Fitness Gym (this is for NMF members only for safety purposes.) You can find your nearest location at http://www.lifetimefitness.com/ Remember how important it is to take care of you.... It will make you an even better mother, wife and all around healthy woman! If the local gym is not in your budget and you are enjoying stroller workouts, why not sign up with some of your NMF buddies for a run or walking race? Check out the listings of local walks at http://www.runmichigan.com/ They are listed by month and by city. In turn, you'll be giving back to your community!

I'm sure you've heard these before....but it's always a good reminder to....

2. Choose whole-grain foods whenever possible.

3. Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.

4. Include 2 servings of milk products each day (3 if you are a nursing mom.)

5. Drink AT LEAST 6 glasses of water each day.

6. Make sure you get enough protein...you'll feel much more satisfied. Pick lean meats such as skinless poultry, fish and eggs.

7. Limit added sugar and alcohol

8. Take a multi-vitamin supplement each day

9. If you're struggling to get rid of that last 5 or 10 lbs. of baby weight, try one of the best programs out there..... Weight Watchers is not a diet, it's a healthy lifestyle change to your eating habits. Visit http://www.weightwatchers.com/ for more information. I have had several friends experience GREAT success by attending weekly meetings (you can bring your kids) and following the program. You don't feel deprived because you're still eating what you enjoy. You are making changes in your portion size and that's what makes the difference!

10. Om.... This local Yoga studio is a GREAT workout and offers the first week FREE! Check out http://www.centerforyoga.net/ There are two locations, one in West Bloomfield and one in Birmingham. This will give you that peace of mind you are looking for as well as those long lean muscles! Above all, remember your body is your sanctuary. Take care of it, be proud of it and love it!

By: Maria (a local fitness instructor & NMF member)