Spider, Bear, Crab, & Inch Worm sounds like the cast of a new children’s show, right? While this cast would be absolutely amazing, it is actually how I have discovered a great way to work out with a toddler running around.
Finding time, or just making time to get in a workout when having a toddler has been a challenge for me. I find myself using the excuse that not only am I a full-time momma, I also work a full-time job outside of the home. However, even on my days off I still find it a struggle to get it done. I know how great it will make me feel and I also know that keeping my muscles strong will benefit my physical and mental health, which my whole family will benefit from. Having creative ways to include my toddler in my work out time has really made the time fun while also providing a bonding experience.
- #4 Way to Work out with a Toddler: THE SPIDER
- #3 Way to Work out with a Toddler: THE BEAR CRAWL
- #2 Way to Work out with a Toddler: THE CRAB WALK
- #1 Way to Work out with a Toddler: THE INCH WORM
# 4 Way to Work out with a Toddler: THE SPIDER
WHAT IT WORKS OUT: Your core, your legs, your arms, your back (what doesn’t it work?)
HOW TO DO IT:
Step 1: Get into plank position
Step 2: Step right foot forward bringing right knee toward right elbow
Step 3: Step right foot back
Step 4: Step left foot forward bringing left knee toward your right elbow
Once you feel comfortable doing this move you can increase the level of difficulty by turning it into an actual crawl, which your little one will absolutely LOVE!
To make it a crawl:
Step 5: While your left knee is forward touching an elbow, slide your right hand forward as far as you can
Step 6: Bring your right knee toward your right elbow while also lifting your left hand and moving it forward.
Step 7: Repeat
SIDE THOUGHT: I found that this move felt awkward at first but once I got the hang of it I find it very fun and definitely a great workout that little loves doing alongside me.
This guy at ADAPTIVE SIGNAL FITNESS on Youtube demonstrates it well How to do a Spiderman Crawl (youtube.com) (I have no affiliation with this site)
#3 Way to Work out with a Toddler: THE BEAR CRAWL
WHAT IT WORKS OUT: Arms, core, and legs
HOW TO DO IT:
Step 1: Get on to your hands and knees
Step 2: Use your toes to lift you up (to avoid straining you back keep your back straight and try to keep your thigh and calf at a 90𝆩 angle)
Step 3: Think like a bear and move one hand forward while simultaneously moving the opposite leg forward
Step 4: Repeat using the other hand and opposite leg
This guy at BSR Physical Therapy on YouTube demonstrates it well: Bear Crawl (youtube.com) (I have no affiliation with this site)
#2 Way to Work out with a Toddler: THE CRAB WALK
WHAT IT WORKS OUT: Arms, core, bottom, and legs
HOW TO DO IT:
Step 1: Sit on your bottom, feet out in front of you, bend your knees
Step 2: Place your hands flat on the ground, fingers facing out behind your bottom
Step 3: Push yourself up so that your arms are straight, knees are bent, bottom is off the floor
Step 4: Think like a crab and move left hand forward while simultaneously moving your right foot forward
Step 5: Repeat with your right hand and left foot
Side Thought: You can do this forward or backwards, you will probably find one way is more difficult for you.
This woman LivestrongWoman on YouTube demonstrates it well going backwards: Crab Walk – YouTube (I have no affiliation with this site)
#1 Way to Work out with a Toddler: THE INCH WORM
WHAT IT WORKS OUT: EVERYTHING!!! Let me know if you feel like any muscle got a break. 🙂
HOW TO DO IT:
Step 1: Start standing straight up
Step 2: Bend forward and place your hands flat on the ground (your flexibility will determine how far out from your feet you start)
Step 3: Keep your butt up in the air and walk your hands forward until you are in a plank position (keep your back and butt flat and in a line with your legs)
Step 4: Think like an inchworm and walk your feet slowly toward your hands putting your bottom into back into the air
Step 5: Walk your hands out again into a plank
Step 6: Repeat
Side Thought: You can do this stationary or moving forward. You can also make this more difficult hold the plank for a few seconds (increase time as you grow stronger)
This woman Howcast on YouTube demonstrates it well staying stationary: How to Do an Inchworm | Abs Workout (youtube.com) (I have no affiliation with this site)
