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7 Ways to Get Fit as a Family
Special to The Truth
Healthy eating habits and
gym routines can be hard to keep up after the excitement of
the holidays fizzle. For parents who juggle busy schedules,
it can be particularly challenging to squeeze in the
recommended amount of physical activity each day.
However, with a little
motivation and a dose of creativity, families can resolve to
stay active and get fit together -- without stepping foot
into the gym. Here are seven ideas to consider:
1. Explore the
neighborhood. Take the children on regular strolls around
the block. Create your own nature walks by identifying
different insects, leaves and animals along the way. Collect
pinecones, acorns or other foliage that can be used for fun
crafts back at the house.
2. Take advantage of local
parks. Visit a local park to discover different walking
paths or bike trails. And spend some time on the playground
while you’re at it! Equipment, such as monkey bars, climbing
walls and balance beams are all fun ways to get moving.
3. Invest in gear without
breaking the bank. Athletic clothes and accessories with the
latest performance fabrics enhance comfort and safety while
working out. What’s more, new gear can be a great way for
each family member to show his or her sense of style, which
can be just the motivation needed to get moving.
Footwear is especially
important to replace often, as worn out athletic shoes can
increase risk of injury. To go easy on the wallet, consider
shopping at retailers like Rack Room Shoes, which offers
everyday value on brands for the entire family. For more
information, visit RackRoomShoes.com.
4. Schedule dance parties.
Enjoy music and shake off some stress by scheduling regular
dance parties after school, during commercial breaks or
before bedtime.
5. Make a game out of
chores. Make the most of family chores. Shoveling snow,
raking leaves and mowing the grass don’t just enhance your
home’s curb appeal; they are all great forms of exercise!
6. Get in a routine. A
routine ensures consistency. Set aside time each week for
bike rides, tag football and soccer games, all of which can
all be done in the neighborhood, backyard or at a favorite
park. In bad weather, head to a local trampoline park,
climbing gym or indoor soccer field.
7. Make a Matrix. Planning
fun activities increases the chance you will keep up the
good work. For those who love to check items off a list, a
color-coded spreadsheet can be a fun visual reminder to test
out new activities. Hang this in a common area, such as the
kitchen, to keep track.
Once you’ve got the plan
in place, get into a fitness routine that works for your
family and stick with it!
Courtesy StatePoint
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