Getting Fit With Your Baby: Stroller Strides

by María José Ovalle

One of the most common complaints from myself and other moms is “I don’t have time.” For whatever it may be, there simply are not enough hours in a day to do it all. And when it comes to fitness and working out, unless your gym has child care or you can leave your children with someone, it’s very difficult to get out there. Take it from me, I’ve been trying to get working out for 9 months. I have a four year old and a 9 month old and a husband who works long hours and travel quite a bit.

However, where there’s a will, there’s a way and a few months ago I discovered Stroller Strides! It’s an outdoor fitness class where you work out WITH your baby or babies. Literally, you stroll with them (well more like running).

Part of the Fit 4 Mom franchise, Stroller Strides is offered all over the country and there are several locations here in Northern Virginia — including Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church, Vienna, Burke, Springfield, Prince William County and Warrenton. 

Jennifer Lungren (39), Stroller Strides/Fit 4 Mom Instructor

Recently, Stroller Strides celebrated it’s 10th year in the area and Jennifer Lungren (39) has been an instructor since then. On average, instructors teach for 3 years or so, but Jennifer, who has 3 girls and 1 boy ages 11, 9, 5 and 3 says “I never thought about leaving. It is an amazing company and group of women to work with. Truly a family and the education and support to run a business is like nothing I have ever experienced!”

And I can surely attest to that! After two weeks of doing Stroller Strides I felt stronger, fitter and I could make it up the hill. In the beginning I needed to fit into a bridesmaid dress in about 4 weeks and I did just that — now I want to keep going to actually lose weight and truthfully, just feel better all around. It’s a great way to start your day and you have your little one with you!

There are women of all fitness levels and abilities, you do what you can and work from there. Everyone is there to support you and make sure you achieve your goals. As a bonus you meet other moms and make friends. Take it from me, it’s worth it! At the very least give it a try, the first class is free.


Break a sweat. Enjoy and feel good!


To find a class near you visit Fit4Mom


Visit María José Ovalle at Very Busy Mamá for fashion and beauty tips and reviews or find on Facebook.

***Stroller Strides Northern Virginia locations are a sponsor of this website.