DERRY, N.H. -- New mothers who might otherwise be too busy for a workout are taking part in a new exercise program that lets them take their babies along, Manchester television station WMUR reported.

The program is called Stroller Strides. It was started by a woman in California four years ago as an alternative for mothers who might not be able to hit the gym with a new baby.

"When you have a new child, you realize you have this body that you don't understand anymore, and you want to be in the environment with like people," franchise co-owner Stacey Steinmetz said.

Steinmetz and co-owner Amy Deutsch started a franchise in Derry in October 2005. Since then, they said, they have watched the class grow and seen friendships form.

"While we're working out and getting fit, they're talking about teething problems, sleeping problems -- like a mother's group, but we work out," Deutsch said.

The one-hour class works all body parts. Even the dreaded squats are modified to include a stroller.

"This combines meeting new people, getting exercise and doing something fun with my daughter," class participant Sarah Larsen said. "It's the perfect combination."

Mothers are recommended to wait at least six weeks after the birth of their baby to join the class and to use a sturdy stroller that won't tip.

"Who better to emulate than your mom?" Steinmetz said. "We want our moms to be their children's role models. When they're seeing fitness at this age, it becomes a way of life."

"Not only do I feel healthier, I'm teaching Grace from an early age how important exercise is, how fun it is," Larsen said. "There's no reason why she won't grow up with healthy habits."

The Stroller Strides class has become so popular that it's being expanded. In the winter, the strollers and the class move inside. Prices vary depending on how many classes are taken.