Caroline Corning Creager, PT and Executive Physical Therapy, Exercise Products, Books & Videos: Swiss Balls, Foam Rollers, Resistive Band Exercises

Tip of the Month
Front Pack Carrying Position

Target Area: abdomen, chest, upper, middle, and lower back, and neck.

Benefits of This Exercise: A front pack is an excellent way to carry baby around the house so you can have the use of your hands.

A front pack is also a wonderful way of carrying a child so you can freely swing your arms while walking. The free-swinging arm motion helps strengthen abdominal muscles.

Good Posture

Poor Posture

Instruction: Place baby in a front pack. Lift baby and place front pack straps over shoulders. Secure waistband with latch, and tighten to comfort. Tighten front pack straps so baby is as close to your body as possible. Keep shoulders back and chest elevated. Tighten tummy by pulling your belly button in towards spine. Walk with arms swinging freely.

Helpful Hints: If possible, have your partner hold baby while you wiggle into front pack straps. The front facing baby position is a more advanced position for baby, and is designed for a baby who has good head control (can lift head up and maintain position). When baby is first born, you will need to place baby in front pack so his/her tummy touches yours.

A front pack may be used until baby reaches about 14 pounds. At this time, you will need to transition him/her to a backpack (only if your child has good head control), or a baby stroller. When you become fatigued, shoulders will start to droop. This will be your key to finish your walk.

The Front Pack Carrying Position and additional lifting and holding techniques can be found in Bounce Back Into Shape After Baby.

Don't miss Caroline Creager's other Tip of the Month features.