Family Fitness: Ways to Get the Kids Involved

With 2017 in full swing and summer is just around the corner, let’s face it, the January motivation to get fit and make this your healthiest year yet has probably worn off.

We think this time of year is perfect to get the whole family working towards a healthier lifestyle however. Because let’s face it, these days, tweens, children, toddlers, and even babies, spend a lot of time plopped in front of a screen.

Warmer weather makes it easier to start going on daily walks. This is a great activity to get the family on their feet and breathing in some fresh air. Follow a walking plan or try and make it an after-dinner routine, even if it is just a 10-minute stroll around the block.

Sometimes, we’re exercising without even realising it. Vacuuming, dusting, even washing the dishes can burn a few calories! So why not get the kids involved and make it a game? For example, the first to wash 10 plates, who can finish folding their tops the fastest or who can do the best vacuum cleaner dance. This won’t only get you feeling more active, but you’ll get a pair of little hands helping you with the housework!Instead of paying an obscene amount on days out at the cinema or going for food, why not visit a forest or have a splash about at the beach? Not forgetting your sun hat of course! There are plenty of activities that mean you don’t have to dive deep into your pocket, but will still guarantee a day full of giggles.

How about developing green fingers? Most children love to get their hands dirty and to get really stuck into gardening. Plus, all that dragging around heavy bags, shovelling soil and playing with the hose is all great exercise.

Now, getting fit isn’t all about going for a jog on a sunny day, there are hundreds of ways to squeeze in a bit of exercise when the rain is pouring down. Something as simple as turning up yours and the kids’ favourite song and throwing your best shapes.

If all of this still sounds like far too much effort, how about doing it for a cause? Sometimes choosing a charity walk or sports day is the perfect way to get a family of couch potatoes motivated. Do some research into when your preferred charity is next participating in or hosting a fundraising activity and get your family and friends to sponsor you. This way, you’re not only doing some good for yourself, but you’re also doing some amazing work for a charity. 

Try some sports that you used to enjoy as a kid, like hula hooping, hopscotch or going on a bike ride – it doesn’t matter if you’re big or small, there will always be a sport which you can take part in. And whatever your ability level, there is a way to participate. If you don’t have the equipment for a bike ride for example, there are plenty of places to hire it. You can even hire specialist equipment, such as bikes for disabled children. This is definitely the perfect time of year to get the entire family fit and healthy!