What a bargain!!

My husband & I have been discussing putting our toddler in gymnastics, so I have been researching programs. It seems that the standard rate in this area is $40 per month for one 30 minute class per week. The more I thought about it, the more it made me appreciate Stroller Strides. Don't get me wrong, I have always known how great Stroller Strides is and the great value it is. I love that I get to interact with my children, that they are learning about the importance of exercise and how it is fun, and all the benefits for me! However, I really realized what a bargain it is - $45 per month gives you unlimited classes - which currently is 3 hours per week, with more to come in spring. So, for $5 more a month, a mom gets a great workout and much needed social interaction with other moms PLUS the kiddos get exposed to healthy lifestyles, learning opportunities (right now each Monday Stroller Strides focuses on a letter through song, flashcards, activities, and sign), music (we might not be the best singers, but my toddler knows so many children's songs that he's learned at Stroller Strides), and social interaction with other children about the same age. Not only do you get all of those benefits, it is also 6x's more time for only $5 more monthly. WOW! It really makes me appreciate it more.

Healthy Momma Challenge

January is the time for fresh starts and goal setting! To help you achieve your fitness and lifestyle goals for the New Year, Stroller Strides is hosting the 2009 Healthy Momma Challenge. The Healthy Momma Challenge is a 6-week program for a healthier and happier YOU!!!!

The Healthy Momma Challenge supports participants while they make strides in three very important areas: mind, body, and spirit. This includes personal "Mom only" time, healthy eating, and fitness. After the close of registration, I will publish a list of participants and from that list, you will form teams of 3 people. If you are interested in participating, but need help with getting a team together - no problem! I will match unmatched participants. Teams of three people count points for making healthy choices for your mind, body, and spirit and points are submitted weekly. The three teams with the most points at the end of the six weeks will win prizes!

This is open to EVERYONE - you do not have to be a Stroller Strides member to participate. Registration is $10 and includes a t-shirt. Registrations are due Thursday, January 15 and the challenge runs from January 26 through March 8.

Get the registration by clicking here.

Mommy's Workout Buddies

A few weeks ago a reporter from a local magazine came to Stroller Strides to do a story. Well, they came back on Friday to do a photo shoot for it. My boys looked fab in their new gear!
The story should be in the February edition and you can access it online. I'll post a link when it runs.

Battling the holiday bulge!

The average American gains 5-7 pounds during this holiday season - ugh! I know we are all looking at ways to avoid that, but let's be realistic about it. To vow that you won't eat a single cookie is, most likely, just sitting yourself up for failure. Then you'll feel bad that you "cheated" and will eat the whole plate of cookies! Instead of not eating any holiday treats, strive to limit your portions, be aware of what you are eating, and choose wisely. SparkPeople evaluated a bakers dozen of cookies and ranked them according to calories and fat grams.
Here they are:
Meringue (25 calories, 0g fat)
Fortune cookie (30 calories, 0g fat)
Biscotti (65 calories, 2.5g fat)
Oatmeal raisin (95 calories, 3.5g fat)
Sugar (100 calories, 3g fat)
Macaroon (100 calories, 6g fat)
Chocolate chip (110 calories, 6g fat)
Gingerbread man (115 calories, 5g fat)
Gingersnap (120 calories, 3g fat)
Peanut butter (125 calories, 6.5g fat)
White chocolate macadamia nut (140 calories, 8g fat)
Peanut blossom (150 calories, 8g fat)
M&M cookie (200 calories, 8g fat)
(See the entire story by clicking here)

Fitness Magazine also offers a great resource for parties. They have compiled a list of the ten healthiest party foods.
The top ten are:
Bruschetta
Smoked Salmon on Toasts
Salsa
Guacamole
Shrimp Cocktail
Vegetables and Dip
Chicken Kabobs
Sushi
Fruit & Cheese
Red Wine
Mixed Nuts
(See the entire story by clicking here)

Another way to battle the bulge is to make sure you keep moving. I know everyone is busy this time of year, but make time to exercise. Of course, Stroller Strides is a wonderful option for a total body workout. Plus, it offers the chance to chat with other moms about where the best shopping deals of the day are!

Colors!

Friday was our first "color" class. We are working our way through the rainbow, so Friday was "RED". It went really well, the kiddos were pointing out things they saw in the mall that were red!
I am really excited about adding these themed classes to Stroller Strides. It adds an enriching, learning activity for the kids while the moms are getting their workout.
Check out the website for the schedule of colors. After we get through the colors, we will be starting the alphabet!