Most busy parents can agree that exercise is one of the first things to go when naptime, grocery store errands and back-to-back playdates dominate the daily schedule. But fitness is as an important part of well-being as its cousins, the healthy diet and a full night of sleep (oh, how we miss those). Luckily, we’ve found the best places in and around Portland for you and your miniature workout buddy to break a sweat together. Bonus: this could help both of you get that full night of sleep you’ve been dreaming of!
Stroller Strides
To get a workout with baby in tow, think outside the weight room. Fit4Mom has multiple options for fitness throughout the metro area. Stroller Strides and Stroller Barre classes offer fitness for mom and fun for baby, with songs, bubbles and interactive play built right into the workout. The bonus to Fit4Mom is the community-based aspect, so participants can benefit from connecting with others through playdates and moms’ nights out in addition to great workouts. Visit their website and plug in your zip code to find the location nearest to you.
Locations in Portland, Tigard, Tualatin, Beaverton, Lake Oswego and West Linn
Online: fit4mom.com
Hike It Baby
Outdoor lovers all over Portland are strapping their babies and toddlers into carriers and hitting the trails. Hikes are planned at easy enough distances and difficulty levels that anyone can participate, so beginners and experienced hikers alike are welcome (and that includes moms, dads, grandparents, friends, and dogs). Each hike is categorized according to the goal, so you’ll know whether older sibs will be leading the way, strollers are appropriate, or all babes will need to be in carriers. The hikes are free but a waiver must be signed online before you show up, so browse the website to see how it works before heading out.
Online: hikeitbaby.com
Imagination Yoga
Need to return to zen after the holidays? Imagination Yoga holds classes across Portland for you and your little Yogini. Their classes will inspire kids to practice poses while also stretching their imagination. Throw in some sun salutations and relaxation techniques and you have a class that fits you both. Call ahead to find out if parents can join the kiddos at the location nearest you.
Online: imaginationyoga.com
photo: sunchild123 via flickr
Perhaps one of the best ways to get moving and ensure your little fitness buff grows up with a love of physical activity is to enroll in a mom/dad and me class through Portland Parks and Recreation. Here are just a few of the classes available to get you and your kiddo up and moving:
Gymnastics: You and Me – Peninsula Park Community Center
Stretch, jump and roll your way to a healthy, active lifestyle. Move together on mats and jump through hoops in this class that brings out the Olympian in all of us.
Basketball: You and Me – Southwest Community Center
Dribble it! Pass it! Shoot it! Develop skills together that promote hand-eye coordination, balance and agility. Active games, creative drills and an emphasis on the joy of physical activity provide a playful introduction to a popular sport.
Sports Mix & Match: All Sorts of Sports – Mt. Scott Community Center
Get a workout toddler-style as you and your child discover activities and movements that increase eye-hand coordination, gross motor skills, balance and social interaction. Toss, catch and experiment with up and down!
What’s your favorite workout location with kids? Share with us in the comments!
–Marianne Walters
