Family Fitness
Think about how inactive our children are today compared to when we were kids. Remember when our parents had to call us in several times because we were busy outside playing tag, hopscotch or baseball? Today, kids are called away from their computer or the sofa in just the next room. This inactive lifestyle is contributing to weight problems, a lack of self-esteem, performance issues at school and poor habits that can carry on into adulthood.
One way to get your family moving is to make physical activity a family affair where all can participate and benefit from the results. Here are a few things the entire family can do:
- Turn TV time into movement time. During the commercial breaks, try playing games, such as who can stand on one leg without falling down, who can do the most sit-ups or squats, or who can do the most jumping jacks.
- When is the last time everyone, as a family, went to the park and ran, jumped or threw a ball?
- After dinner, instead of watching “Dancing with the Stars,” try watching the stars on an evening walk together. This is a perfect time to share the details of your day with each other.
- These quality times are key to keeping the family active, healthy and in touch with each other. Your children will certainly remember these moments far more than the latest video game you bought them, and will appreciate the results.