Getting Fit With The Family

Lidia Scinski

Find Excuses To Walk

One of the best ways to stay active even on

the go is to walk as much as possible.

For example, when you drop the kids off at

school, park in the parking lot and walk them

inside.

When running errands, pick a parking spot

that’s far from the entrance.

Avoid using elevators and escalators when

you can, and take the steps.

Doing these activities with your kids will help

them learn healthy habits, and they’ll also get

your blood pumping.

Get a Dog

Furry friends are a great way to stay active in

your household.

In order to keep a dog happy and healthy, you

need to walk it every day.

Having a dog will push you and your family to

get out there and get active.

Many studies have shown that dog ownership

increases daily exercise activity.

Do Chores

Most parents give their children a weekly

chore list to help them build character and

learn responsibility.

Chores are also a good way for parents to stay

active.

Mowing the grass, vacuuming the carpet, and

dusting the house are some different ways to

work up a sweat.

Knowing how many calories you burn while

doing chores will motivate you to get going.

Get Competitive

There’s nothing wrong with a little

competition.

If multiple family members own activity

trackers, you can create a friendly family

competition each week.

One idea is to see who can reach the most

steps or hours being physically fit in a week or

month. Whoever wins gets a prize.

This will motivate you and your family to

create new healthy habits while spending

time together.

Create a Routine

One of the best ways to get the entire family

physically active is to create a routine.

For instance, some families add yoga to their

bedtime routine. It’s a great way to encourage

the entire family to be active, and it helps

relax you at the same time.

Other routines include exercise in the morning

or family hikes on the weekends.