When some families think of getting fit, they imagine gym memberships and hours of time and complicated exercises. While gym memberships and joining fitness centers are certainly good options, they are not possible for everyone. And sometimes, those images of intense training and lots of time can intimidate families into not getting fit at all. This is why starting small and working fitness into your daily routine can be so helpful. Here are some tips on making fitness fit.
See the Exercise Around You
Think about your family’s routines – where do you go as a family? If there are stairs instead of elevators, take the stairs. Instead of fighting over the closest parking place, park far away on purpose so you have to walk to the store. There might be errands you can run using a bike or walking. If your grocery store is not too far away, take the family walking and pull a wagon. You can take the groceries home in the wagon.
Plan the Day
Many of us can end up spending hours in front of the TV, computer, or even reading a book before we realize how much time has passed. Think for a bit about your weekend routines, or whenever you are together as a family. Establish some routines that involve exercise – family walks, hikes, or even just playing outside. Anything that involves physical activity can be implemented into a daily or weekly routine. The key is to plan it rather than waiting to see how the day pans out.
Fun and Games
As you try to look for those “down” times in your family routine, find one where you can do fun, physically active games with your family. Even playing “chase” or “tag” around the house gets everyone moving. The important thing is to make it a regular occurrence.
Maybe after dinner would be a good time for this game time. Small children really enjoy games like Follow the Leader, jump rope or jumping on a trampoline. Children and adults of all ages can enjoy things like playing catch. And these days, computer games like the Wii can involve a lot of physical activity.
Exploit Family Interests
Look at what your family loves, and see about incorporating it into something physical. Does your spouse like airplanes? Do your kids like trains? You can find a physical outlet for some of these interests. Get a toy airplane that you can throw in an open field; get several and race them. Just make sure they are the kind that you throw, not remote control! You want everyone to be chasing them.
If someone in your family likes trains, plan outings to watch trains come and go at the station, or take a short train trip and hike back. Does one of your kids like horses? Arrange for regular family trail rides or riding lessons. Maybe your kids have seen a movie about karate or some other martial art. Capitalize on this interest and get the family involved in your local martial arts school. Family members are a lot more open to getting fit if it’s an activity they enjoy.
Leave a Reply