|
Exercising together as a family is a great way to strengthen family bonds and relationships.
Good health and fitness makes everyday better and more fulfilling for parents and
children alike. Kids learn about exercise, proper nutrition, managing stress, and
healthy living from what they see at home. When the family spends time engaged in
physical activity, it is much easier for kids to stay healthy and adopt a lifelong
healthy lifestyle. You'll have lots of fun together, and you'll be showing your
kids the importance of getting physical activity on a regular basis.
Swimming is one of the best exercises for the entire family It can be a source
of fun as well as excellent physical activity because it exercises every muscle
in your body. Head to the beach, nearby lake or community pool and play games such
as water volleyball and “Marco Polo” for even more family fun!
Chores can be an excellent source of exercise. Everyday activities such as carrying
groceries, taking out the garbage, vacuuming, dusting and washing clothes will provide
some calorie-burning activity and help develop a sense of responsibility. Make games
out of chores (for example play music and dance around while vacuuming, or see who
can carry in the groceries the fastest) and you’ll find that they won’t be “chores”
but will be ways for the whole family to work their bodies and have fun!
Gardening is a wonderful way to keep active as well as keep the outside of your
house looking beautiful. Planting, weeding and picking flowers and/or fruits and
vegetables can be a good source of exercise that also provides a sense of accomplishment
– and some of the rewards may even be incorporated into your meal plan!
Try walking instead of getting in the car. Involve the whole family in fun walks
in parks, around the block, to the grocery store, etc. A brisk pace when walking
is better than a leisurely pace. Try using a pedometer to count your steps - it
is added fun for kids, who enjoy keeping track of how far they walk in a day!
Bike riding is always a fun activity and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Encourage
family outings on bike trails or simply around the neighborhood. Bicycle riding
is a great cardiovascular activity and also provides some resistance training to
the lower body (remember: everyone should wear a bicycle helmet!)
Games such as catch, tag, hopscotch, hide and seek or jump rope. Childhood games
can be great family fun, regardless of age and help burn off extra calories.
Take advantage of free local programs. All Lifestyle Family Fitness locations
offer a free Summer Membership for teens ages 12 to 17. Teens can enroll from May
15th through August 15th for a free 2-month membership and utilize the club by themselves
or along with you! Once enrolled, the teens can participate in all group fitness
classes as well as use all equipment in the club. (parent must provide photo ID
at sign up.) For more information, please visit LFF.COM.
|