A Wilmington-area business that offers fitness classes for new mothers they can attend with their babies in tow now offers classes in Leland.

Jody Smith, owner of the local franchise of Stroller Strides said the newest offerings will be held at Leland Municipal Park behind town hall.

Smith started the franchise in 2007 after her son was born. “I quit my job at University of North Carolina Wilmington and started my own business,” she recalled.

All the classes take place outdoors at area parks, and mothers bring their children in strollers. In-between the circuit interval training and power walking, the classes include children’s songs and other activities for the tots, and isn’t limited to babies.

“With Stroller Strides, not only are you getting a workout, but you are still spending quality time with your children,” she said. “You feel motivated to come and you’re with other moms who know what you’re experiencing and what you’re going through as a new mom.”

Smith said all the classes are geared to everyone, with exercise modifications to suit every fitness level.

She recently expanded the classes to include prenatal offerings. “All of the exercises are designed for pregnant women and preparing them for pregnancy, labor and delivery, and motherhood,” she said.

After the classes, a free play group forms called the Luna Moms Club, and the group also takes part in area field trips each Thursday, ranging from beach picnics to pottery making. There are a variety of morning classes in the area taught by several instructors and one evening class in Wilmington. The cost varies depending upon the package chosen, including a monthly charge of $45 for unlimited classes or a $15 charge per class, as well as packages of
passes and three-month offers. For information, call Smith at (800) 691-6154, or e-mail her at [email protected].