Sunday, November 1, 2009

Always Moving

The Murphree Family working out together!!!




Sara sporting her Halloween socks at our Halloween workout yesterday.




Me and my boys: Riley & Coen





Side shuffling for CANDY














The other day in class I told a few moms that sometimes I treat life like a marathon. It might be because I'm always moving. I'm still trying to decide if this is a good or bad thing. To be honest I have a hard time sitting down. Each day I wake up, get the kids going as quickly as possible, make breakfast, strap them in the car, drop Riley off, get to Stroller Strides, teach class, well you know the rest. It's called being a MOM! But if I rewind back to the teaching Stroller Strides I quickly realize it is the reason we sprint out the door each morning. Stroller Strides is my marathon. It is the one activity that we have done religiously for the past 3.5 years that has created wonderful memories, life lessons and given me so many hours of precious time with my two boys. So I may treat my life like a really long race (I've decided this is a good thing) but it has a sole purpose in the end. That is to be there for my family and Stroller Strides mamas. Finally I'm proud to show you the group that keeps me moving in all directions. We are Stroller Strides Corpus Christi! Thank you ladies for supporting Stroller Strides and my marathon.

















































































































































Sunday, September 27, 2009

FALL into Stroller Strides


It is officially Fall here in the Coastal Bend. Even though it may not feel like Fall we are all dreaming of cool crisp mornings during our workouts. Starting Monday September 28th our new schedule will start. All classes will start @ 9:15 am. We will still use the Sunrise Mall when it rains or gets really chilly. Between now and the end of April is a great time to take advantage of South Texas weather. We will do more outside activities and play dates. Most of all your workouts will feel invigorating and help you meet your fitness goals.


Monday-Texas State Aquarium

Tuesday-Brighton Park

Wednesday-Cole Park

Thursday-Brighton Park

Friday- Cole Park

Saturday-Brighton Park
We will offer our island class on the last Friday of each month.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Creating Healthy Homes











Stroller Strides of Corpus Christi is a proud partner with Luna Bar and Healthy Child Healthy World. We will be hosting a mini Healthy Home Party following class on Tuesday August 25th in the Sunrise Mall. Join us for free information and giveaways.





Creating Healthy Environments for Children




What it’s all about
Our children live in a world vastly different from the one we grew up in. More than 80,000 chemicals, most of which did not exist fifty years ago, are registered for use in commerce in the United States, and an estimated 2,000 new ones are introduced every year. These chemicals are used in everyday items such as foods, shampoos, toys, furniture, electronics, household cleaners, and lawn care products, just to name a few. The effects of most of these chemicals on human health are unknown.
Unfortunately, there is no pre-market safety testing required under any federal law for these chemicals and of the 15,000 most commonly used chemicals, more than 80% have not been tested for potential health effects on children. None have been tested for their health effects when they interact with one another, but that’s how we’re exposed to them.
What is this doing to our kids? For the most part, we don’t really know. It’s largely an unregulated experiment – and it’s being conducted on our children and us. One thing we do know is that childhood diseases and disabilities that have links to toxic exposures are on the rise and they deserve special attention because they are preventable. Children are more vulnerable
Beginning in utero, babies and children are different than adults — they are often much more vulnerable to environmental toxins.
• Pound-for-pound, children breathe more air, drink more water, and eat more food than adults. For example, the air intake of a resting infant is twice that of an adult. Also, children between the ages of one and five eat three to four times more food per pound of body weight than the average adult. Thus, they are more exposed to air and water pollution and pesticides.
• Children absorb more nutrients and, consequently, more toxins than adults.
• Because their metabolic systems are still developing, children’s ability to detoxify and excrete
harmful chemicals differs from that of adults.
• Children’s bodies are rapidly growing and developing, so chemicals that can harm development can do maximum damage at this critical time.
• Children are more likely than adults to come in contact with many of the contaminants around us each day. Children play on the floor where allergens, such as dust, and heavier-than-air chemicals settle and collect. Young children put everything in their mouth, which is a crucial part of normal development, the way a baby learns about the world.
Continuation of this program depends on your support. Please make a small donation today at www.healthychild.org.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Ashley McComb Photography & Stroller Strides








We've now have an official Stroller Strides photographer. Ashley McComb one of our very own mamas will now be taking all of our official photos. You can visit her website @


















Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Moms Having Fun







Last night we had our monthly Luna Mom's Night Out. We decided to play Bunco, have a few drinks and eat some delicious appetizers. Every time we have a Mom's Night Out I realize how special our group truly is. I love the workouts but I think my favorite part is the social support I get from Stroller Strides. Each mommy brings something special to the table and we all come together for the same reasons: Fitness, Friendship And Motherhood! Thank you Jen for hosting last night. And thank you to all the wonderful women in Stroller Strides!

Monday, June 22, 2009

Top 5 Ways To Stick To Exercise



How many times have you planned to workout and some how it didn't happen? I bet more often then you think. In Lisa Druxman's "Lean Mommy" she goes over some great tips on how to stick to an exercise program.


Tip #1 Have Fun

Pick an activity that you like to do. If you hate running on the treadmill skip it and head out to play ball with the kids or go for a walk. Stroller Strides is a great option because you get to socialize with other moms while getting a great workout.


Tip #2 Be Flexible

Make sure to fit activity into your daily routine no matter what. Know that even if you can't do your usual aerobics tape or make it to class always have back up activities in mind. If your little one is sick and you can't get out of the house hit the living room carpet with push-ups, sit-ups and lunges. These exercises are a great way to burn those extra calories.


Tip #3 Get Up Earlier

Do you stay in bed an extra 30 minutes because your little one decided to be up all night or do you get up and get moving? Research has indicated that sleep deprivation can cause weight gain however if you can manage to wake up 30 minutes earlier you can get a few moments to yourself to mentally prepare for your day and workout. I know If I wake up at least 20 minutes before my kids I feel like I have a much better start to the day without feeling rushed.


Tip#4 Meet A Friend Or Friends

It's plain and simple women love to be around other women. We talk , build friendships and have fun working out together. Working out with a friend makes the workout go by much faster and your friends hold you accountable. Stroller Strides is a great option for a new mom looking to meet other moms, get an amazing workout and have an instant support network all in one.


Tip #5 Cross Train

Make sure to mix up your workout routine to prevent boredom and hitting a plateau. Our bodies need to be challenged to see continued results. Find other activities that you enjoy and set goals to try those activities. Sign up to run a race or go to Stroller Strides classes at different locations or try a new workout video twice a week. By cross training you can keep your workouts exciting and coming back for more!



Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Luna Mom's Tip



Healthy Hydration for Pregnant Mommies






Stay hydrated! More fluids are necessary for a multitude of functions including providing for the expanding blood volume that helps to carry nutrients to mom & baby. And when you’re nursing, you will need the extra fluid to maintain a healthy flow of breast milk for your baby. Drink about eight to ten 8 ounce glasses of non-caffeinated, non-caloric fluids per day. Caffeine in excess can be dehydrating and high caloric drinks such as soda and juice can add up extra calories. Plus the added bonus is that drinking a lot of water is the best way for your skin to get that healthy glow!
Even if your not pregnant remember to drink lots of water too. Especially if your working out with us outside.


Monday, June 15, 2009

The Climb

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A Must Have! Lean Mommy


Ok, thanks to Allison who let me borrow her Lean Mommy book I started reading through the pages tonight. I've only read a couple but each paragraph in Lisa Druxman (The Founder of Stroller Strides) shares with us her insight on motherhood, starting her own business and her secrets to healthy living through her Lean Mommy program and Stroller Strides. This book is a must have and I will be giving one away during the month of July. So make sure to come to class as much as possible because you just might be the lucky One.

Over the next few weeks I thought it would be fun to share with you some of the Lean Mommy tips Lisa shares with us throughout the book. However, I'm going to make you wait until tomorrow for you first tip. Tonight or whenever you read this I want you to do one of Lisa's Mommy Meditations. You might guess that it has something to do with body image. As new or seasoned mom's we can be a bit hard on the way our bodies have changed through each of our pregnancies. I find that this 1st Mommy Meditation helps me realize that true beauty it whatever I want it to be.

Mommy Meditation #1
By Lisa Druxman
"Sit in a quiet upright position. Breath quietly through your nose. Slow your breathing down and try to lengthen the time it takes you to exhale. Now imagine yourself in front of a mirror. See yourself as your are today. Scan the body and face that you know so well. Find an area that makes you uncomfortable. Stop and focus closer. Now soften the edges and see that body part blend in with the other curves in your face or on your body. Widen your perspective again so that you see the whole you, but soft and rounded and warm."

Cheers to motherhood and healthy living!
Rebecca

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Summer Schedule


Can you believe June has arrived? That means a change in our schedule do to the heat. Below you will see the updated schedule and also make sure to check out our upcoming events on the side of our blog.


All classes start @ 9:15 a.m.


Monday-Texas Stata Aquarium

Tuesday-Sunrise Mall

Wednesday- Cole Park or Portland Community Center Field

Thursday-Sunrise Mall

Friday-Science Museum or Portland Community Center Field

Saturday-Sunrise Mall


Don't forget to check out the BOB Stroller contest on the side bar as well.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies Diaper Derby





















Stroller Strides nationwide have teamed up with Pampers to promote the Pampers/Unicef 1 Pak = 1 Vaccine program. Today in Corpus Christi we held our own Diaper Derby to help raise awareness for the program and to give back to other moms in the community. Each mom brought one package of Pampers wipes to be donated to the Pregnancy Resource Center. Our event included a diaper changing contest between the moms and races between the toddlers. We had a great time watching the little one's run to the finish line. As moms we are so lucky to have the resources to vaccinate our children appropriatly. Thank you to all who came out to class and donated wipes. I will be collecting wipes throught Monday of next week.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Exercise of The Week

















Glute Squeeze (By Farel Huruska-National Stroller Strides Fitness Director)


This exercise is all about strengthening the gluteus maximus through hip extension. The ball behind the knee is not required, however, if it is there this exercise can target hamstrings a little more, as well. The stroller is there as a prop, not a balance aid. Do not lean on the stroller, find your own balance.


Keeping the knee bent, press the shoe up towards the sky squeezing the glutes. Be sure to cue that the spine remains in neutral. Avoid hyperextension of the back.
CUES:
Keep grounded knee soft
Engage the core (pelvic floor included)
Shoulders pulled back and down
Keep neck in align with the spine
Depress the shoulders/Upper Traps
BREATHE


MODIFICATIONS:
To decrease the intensity of this exercise, do not lift the foot too high.
See you in class!
Rebecca

Monday, April 20, 2009

March For Babies















This past weekend was so busy here in Corpus Christi between Windfest, Sandfest and the Air Show Stroller Strides found time to participate in the March of Dimes Walk. Nearly 2000 walkers came out to support March of Dimes. Stroller Strides raised over $1500 between all of us. I even got the chance to do the warm-up before the walk. Thank you for all of you who came out to walk and all of you who donated. From one mommy to another I love being able to support such a worthy cause!

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Fire Station Fun







One of my favorite things about Stroller Strides is participating in the outside activities that we do as a group. Today we took a field trip to Fire Station One in downtown Corpus Christi. We had a great time climbing on the big red engines, checking out the fire gear and sitting in the ambulance. The little one's also got to spray the big fire hose. I love to watch the expressions on the children's faces as they get a chance to explore new surroundings. In the end we have a fabulous time! Thank you to Allison who set up this event for us.

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Family Day 2009








Family Day was a hit! Thank you to all of you for coming out to support Stroller Strides. We did lots of running, plyometrics, a few songs and most of all had a great time. I hope the dads got a real feel of what you mammas do in class each week. I'm already looking forward to next year! Congrats to Jen Gratland and her husband. They won the $50 gift card to Katz 21.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Working Hard





I love this time of year in Corpus Christi. For one the temperature is not a 100 degrees, the mosquitoes are still sleeping and were sweating because were working hard not because of the 100% humidity. Ladies your doing a great job this month. I love your dedication and encourage you to continue working hard to make your goals a reality.

Ok, Coen isn't working so hard.





From The Womb to Stroller Strides



Yes, we can all agree that birth is extremely traumatizing for babies but what about joining Stroller Strides at such a young age? I have to say its the best thing for a new baby and his mommy (of course with the Doc's approval). Not only does he get to see the world but mommy gets to pull on the skinny jeans again. She gets to do more besides just feeding and changing diapers. A new mom who joins Stroller Strides gets to rejuvenate her mind, body and spirit. Congratulations Gail you did a fabulous job. Little Ty is a great addition to our Stroller Strides Family. Your inspiration to all of us. So if your ready to get pregnant and have a baby Stroller Strides of Corpus Christi will be ready for you after a healthy delivery.
Cheers to motherhood and healthy living!
Rebecca

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Stroller Strides In Action

Here is a little sample of our class that we had on Friday outside the Science Museum. It is a great location and offers some beautiful views. We will be offering class their once a month. Our next Science Museum class will be Friday March 28th.


Melissa And Her Stroller Strides Journey


Meet a mom who does it all. I would like to introduce Melissa, another one of our fabulous instructors who teaches class in Corpus Christi and Portland.

My name is Melissa Erdner, I have two beautiful kids, Lucas who is 4.5 and Amelia who is 2.5. I have been married for almost 7 years to my husband Matt who is in the Navy. I first started with Stroller Strides when we lived in Monterey, CA. I took my first class at 8+ months pregnant and waddled my whole way through, loving every minute. I continued on with my classes up until a week before I delivered and couldn't wait to get back out there shortly after. I realized that being an instructor was something that I would love to pursue, so I spoke with the owner and began going through the steps to become a certified Personal trainer and Stroller Strides Instructor. During this process the opportunity to purchase the existing Stroller Strides franchise became available and I jumped at it. It was scary and exciting all at once, and for sure it changed my life. Being a Navy family makes it a challenge to meet people that you can build lasting friendships with. When I started Stroller Strides, I realized that the woman involved in this group are so special. Being here in Texas now for the last 7 months, I have loved every minute with this group of Mom's as much as my first group of Stroller Strides Moms. The energy and love that they put into their children is Awe inspiring and it pushes and teaches me to be a better parent on a daily basis. I have been teaching stroller strides for 2.5 years now, and because of this experience I have been motivated to go back to school to attain my associates and Masters in Physical Therapy.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Meet Sara Bading



Meet Sara Bading our newest Stroller Strides Instructor. Check out what Sara has to say about her Stroller Strides journey. Check back later to meet more of our fantastic moms!


Ok....
Where does one begin. I moved to Corpus last year from College Station and within one week of moving in I was already attending Stroller Strides. I started by stalking Rebecca (kidding). I ran into her at HEB and jumped right over to ask if she attended class. I like to think it was fate telling me to loose that baby jiggle that formed around my mid section and had plastered itself to my rear end.
I love Stroller Strides because I get to work out, be with friends, hang out with my baby and have fun all at the same time. If it wasn't for Stroller Strides and the wonderful friends I have made, I don't think I would have survived my first year of being a stay at home mom...and I would for sure weigh 200 lbs. Thank goodness it got me to LOVE working out.
I have NO background in fitness...and if you asked many of my friends from college what the thought of me teaching a class I am sure they would all laugh. It's true...I HATED running until I joined SS and actually realized it wasn't that bad. Neither is sweating. My Mom even made me swear that I would keep going to class all summer long, even in the heat, before she would bestow the gift of a jogging stroller onto me. It's sad when even you're family has doubts.
I attended SS Instructor Training in December 2008 and fell deeper in love with SS and all that it entails. I can see myself teaching class for many years to come (if Rebecca still lets me). I really believe all Moms need to try it at least once, and want everyone have as much passion for this as I do. SS is such a big part of my day, and my life.
I am also slightly hyper, very loud and almost always in a good mood. People mistake that for being nuts and I am ok with that. I think as long as people are laughing then it's ok...even if you're laughing at me.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Making The Most Out of Your Workout

So how many of you give 100% each time you come to class? Before you pull your stroller out of the car are you preparing yourself for your workout? I know your baby might be screaming or your toddler is yelling for his juice. But if your not in the zone you must learn to find it. As a mom we do everything for everyone else first. We wake up, change diapers, feed the munchkins, get them dressed, wipe their noses and hopefully have time to dress ourselves before we leave the house. I think we all spend many hours obsessing over all of the little details in our life that we forget about our needs. So now I'm challenging you to forget about everything else when you come to class. Forget the laundry, forget the long grocery list waiting for you on the fridge and for one hour make yourself top priority. Remember all of those duties will see still be there when you get home. I promise. You are so lucky you get to spend time with your child but also devote one hour to your mind, body and spirit. Making time for yourself has to be top priority on your list. If you keep a planner schedule your Stroller Strides classes just as you would a lunch date or business meeting and don't cancel. If you don't have your health you can't do all of those other things in life. One including being a MOM! Don't get me wrong we are all amazing especially great at multi-tasking. I'm just asking you to devote more to yourself. Why? because YOU DESERVE IT! So when you come to class tomorrow or the next day before you get out of your car repeat to yourself "I'm a great mom", "I'm doing the best I can" and "I deserve to take care of myself first." Finally I want you to repeat 3x "I'm going to give 100% today. " In the end your workout will be enhanced by your attitude but show even more when your sporting around a fit mama body!

Cheers To Motherhood And Healthy Living!
Rebecca

Monday, February 16, 2009

Saturday Class


Because of The Rise & Shine Walk this Saturday I will be moving our Cole Park class to Brighton Park. Please join me for a great Saturday workout @ 9:15 am. Remember Dads can always come to class for FREE. Saturday is a great day to bring your hubby. Also don't forget Saturday March 14th is Stroller Strides Family Day. For every mom who brings her husband she will be entered into a raffle for a $50 gift card to The Republic of Texas.