This column is dedicated to my mom, Paula Akard.

Well, I'm not a mom, but I can certainly appreciate their ability to make time for exercise. After all, I'm the one who's always telling moms to make time!

Whether your kids are at home or not, it seems that motherly duties can call on all moms. For this article, we'll focus on the many mothers who have young children at home. I must admit, it seems to be a lot like juggling.

Here are some great tips and exercise techniques to keep your body in tune with your parenting.

Tips From Moms
Think of yourself as important enough to take the time. -- Paula Akard

Every second is precious. Exercising with my baby allows me to get in shape and Ashton can enjoy the activity and movement. -- Paige Wheeler

For me, if you make time for yourself, no matter how busy you are, you'll be that much better a mother. You have to take care of yourself before others. -- Jan Maxwell

Consult a physician before starting this or any exercise program.
Note: The video of this segment will help you better understand the movements described in this article.

Front-pack Baby Squats
Target: entire lower body

Hold a pole or broomstick in front of you, with the pole vertical or standing on the ground. This will act as a helping tool and will protect your lower back.

Keep your back tall. Now, bend your legs as if you're sitting in a chair. Only bend to a 90-degree angle and then stand again. Try to keep your knees even with your toes. Again, the hips should move backward and forward as you bend and straighten the legs. Most of your body weight should be on your heels -- about 80 percent on the heels and 20 percent on the front of your feet. Inhale on the down motion and exhale on the up motion.

Do two to three sets of 10 to 20 repetitions. Remember, the baby adds weight to your exercise so take it easy, listen to your body and be safe.

Isometric Baby Bicep Curls
Target: biceps

Keep you back very tall and your abdominals tight for this one. Now, when you hold your baby, keep your arms at a 90-degree angle and hold this position until you feel fatigue. Hold for approximately 30 seconds and release. After the first set, use your hip or other methods to hold your child in a more relaxed and efficient position. Do two to four sets of this focused exercise. Be sure to breathe through the duration of the arm flex.

Baby Focus Knee Push-ups
Target: chest and arms

You can keep your baby in front of you while doing this exercise. From what I gather, this is a great way to keep your baby involved.

Place a cushion under your knees. This will protect your knees from chronic injury. Keep your hips in a piked "V" position to protect your lower back. Your chest should be the leading edge moving toward the floor. Inhale as you go down and exhale as you press up. Keep your elbows pointed outward to best address the targeted muscle.

This article is in honor of all the mothers out there. I commend you all for making time in your demanding schedules to care for your children and for your health.