I started going back to the gym as soon as Lily was 8 weeks old (the minimum age for the day care there). Although I had major reservations about putting my delicate little newborn into a crazy toddler-germ-rich environment, I was so unhappy with my post-baby body that I was willing to risk it. It worked out OK- for the 1st 20 minutes, just long enough for me to get really involved in the weights class that I was doing, and then I could hear her screaming. Literally- from down the hall. It wasn't long before a harried day care worker came into the room to search me out. And that was the end of my workout. I kept trying, and although it got better, I never once got through my whole workout.

If only I'd known about Stroller Strides! :)

Even if I couldn't make it to a Stroller Strides class, I could've used the resources found on the website and in Lean Mommy to get a great workout in, at home with my baby.
Here is a favorite: the baby chest press! You can hang out & play with your baby while getting in some great chest work!

Starting Position
Lie on your back on the floor, holding baby's body firmly (beneath his arms). You and your baby should be face-to-face. Ensure baby's head is stable and engage your abdominals by pulling your belly button in towards your spine.

Action
EXHALE: Supporting baby's midsection, slowly push baby upward, extending your arms towards the ceiling, keeping your elbows slightly bent. Hold for a few counts. INHALE: Slowly lower baby back down to your chest level to complete one rep. Aim for 1-3 sets of 10-15 repetitions.

Special Instructions
Safety should be your main concern, for you and the baby. Make sure that baby is totally secure in all movements. If any exercise is uncomfortable or too strenuous with baby, try it without baby first. Keep your spine in a neutral position. Don't lift head off the floor during this exercise. If your lower back comes up from the floor at all during the movement, then raise your legs (bent) into the air to keep your back flat throughout the entire movement.