Get Fit as a Family
By Carly R. Fenner, R.D.
Exercise is good for the body. Family togetherness is good for the spirit. So why not put two good things together and do a workout the whole family can enjoy?
Go for a Walk
Almost everyone can walk, and we can do it just about anywhere, from tots and parents going for a leisurely stroll, to grandparents and grandkids speed-walking at the mall.
We all know that regular physical activity, like walking, helps control weight and reduces risks for heart attack, cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. But walking is more than good for you -- it can also add pleasure to your day!
We're all more likely to exercise when it's disguised as something else. Try spicing up your walks, by stopping at a park to play football or Frisbee, taking your family dog, or even go on a nature walk or hike. On a Saturday, pack a picnic and walk to the park for the afternoon. Enjoy your lunch, the outdoors, and the company of your family.
Maybe you have a favorite family restaurant nearby? Walk there (and, of course, keep an eye on portion sizes once you arrive).
Is your child’s school within walking distance? Encourage your kids to walk there and then join them. If you have toddlers who can't keep up with the big kids, bring them along in their own little red wagon.
Walk for a Cause. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Avon, The March of Dimes, and many other groups put on walks to raise money for good causes. Get your family involved in these activities; you will get physical activity in while doing something good for your community.
Swimming: Cool Down, Get Fit
The equation is simple: Kids love water, and water workouts are easy on weary adult joints. That adds up to an activity that's suitable for all ages.
Water is 12 times more resistant than air, which gets those muscles working harder. Try water walking in the shallow end of the pool. You can get quite a workout. Try varying the style of walking -- forward, backward, and side to side -- to utilize all the major muscles for a balanced workout.
Pool toys are also great for playing games with the kids. Pick up rings from the bottom of the pool, or play basketball with a floating hoop. If you have some foam noodles, you can play racing games. Climb aboard your buoyant steed and race to the end of the pool.
Family Sports Teams
Get other families together to play a pick up game of volleyball, softball, kickball, ultimate Frisbee, etc… It is a fun way to involve everyone in your family and socialize with other families.
Roller Skating Rinks, Not Just a Thing of the Past
Remember the days when you would go to the local roller skating rink for hours on end? Well, you can still do that today! Most rinks offer both in-line skates and roller skates, so don’t feel like you have to know how to rollerblade. Leave that for your kids, and you can pull on those beloved roller skates again.
It’s A STRIKE!
Try taking your family to the local bowling alley. This activity is fun and will help to develop hand-eye coordination as well as strength of the dominant arm. Though this activity is not highly active, it is a good way to spend time with your family, and is perfect for some down time on the weekend rather than television watching.
Getting involved in physical activity is always more fun with a partner, so get your whole family involved, your son or daughter will get the added bonus of getting to spend time with you.