Some moms are able to muster the motivation to get back into their regular workout routines, while others find it more challenging to fit exercise into their much-altered lifestyles. Stroller Strides, a national fitness program that includes both moms and babies, makes the balancing act a whole lot easier.

And don’t be fooled — exercising with a baby in tow isn’t child’s play.

The moms in Stroller Strides Leeward Oahu group mean business. They give it their all from beginning to end while toting their tykes along in a stroller. This is a "no excuses" class. Fussy child? The instructor has bubbles and puppets to entertain the kiddies while moms sprint up and down hills and perform squats, burpees and resistance band exercises.

We started our warm-up with the strollers arranged in a circle at Central Oahu Regional Park in Wai­pio. Standing on the resistance bands, we did side lunges, making our way around the circle and stopping to do some overhead presses before changing directions. The group then split into two, with power walkers heading down one path and runners taking another route, both meeting up at the next workout station.

We used the park bleachers for step-ups and the chain-link fence to hook our resistance bands on for arm exercises. Picnic tables were used for pushups and dips. We ended with an abdominal workout and stretch.

A jogging stroller is recommended for the class, but it’s not necessary as long as your stroller is not prone to tipping. You should also bring a towel or mat and water. I’d recommend sunscreen and a hat as well. During the class, children must remain in their strollers, so make sure they have snacks or a toy to entertain themselves.

Trish Holzman, a mother and owner of the Stroller Strides Leeward Oahu franchise, said that one of the best parts of the program is not having to worry about child care while working out.

Stroller Strides also serves as a support group, as moms can discuss issues and receive advice and comfort. As part of the program, the moms organize beach days, a restaurant club, monthly "Mom’s Night Out" outings and weekly play groups.

"Stroller Strides was so much more than a workout for me. It gave me back my sense of self and connected me to a network of amazing women," Holzman said.

Jenna Tokujo-Tongg, a 34-year-old Aiea resident, still does the Stroller Strides workouts even though her children, ages 3, 6 and 9, are in school.

"I started with my second child and was hooked. If you are new and not in shape, they will customize the program for you. If you are advanced, they really push you. It’s a full-body workout," she said.

Another aspect she enjoys is "Mom’s Night Out."

"We would go to dinner, go dancing, sing kara­oke and do other fun activities. Everyone is so supportive," she said.

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“Tryouts” features exercise and wellness classes and other fitness activities. Reach Nancy Arcayna at narcayna@staradvertiser.com or call 529-4808.