Great Workouts You Can Do with Your Kids

Although you would like to embrace Michelle Obama’s mantra of “Let’s Move” to ensure that your kids don’t succumb to the video-game-playing, Facebook-updating, texting-and-tweeting couch-potato trend that seems to define their generation, you don’t exactly think they’ll be on board with the cardio kickboxing and spinning classes you prefer to frequent. In fact, they don’t seem to be interested in sports or outdoor activities at all. So how can you get them to participate in the physical activities they need to stay healthy while still getting in the workout you crave? Although it may be difficult to find a workout that delivers a happy medium for you and your kids, there are plenty of physical pursuits that will let you get the exercise you all need while still allowing your kids to have fun. Here are just a few options you might want to examine.

The first thing you should do is can the electronics (or at least ration them). While most parents seem to think that kids these days NEED a cell phone, you might recall that we all got by just fine without them twenty years ago. There are times when they come in handy, but instead of allowing your children free access, give them a phone to use only when they’re out with friends so that they have a way to contact you in case of emergency (then take them back). And when it comes to computer and television time, limit them to a certain amount of time each day so they can fill the remainder of their time reading or playing outdoors. These days it seems like a novel concept, but it could make a real difference in the level of activity your kids experience.

The next step is to get them moving, and doing it with them is a great way to spend some quality family time together as well as have a little fun. Hiking, biking, swimming, and roller blading are always fun, and even kids who aren’t very coordinated can manage at least a couple of these activities. You can probably find trails all around your area for hiking, and if you bring along a plant guide, you can even work in an education (and probably make the hike more interesting). You could also collect natural elements (leaves, rocks) for artistic purposes. Biking and roller blading will probably require paved surfaces, but why not take several trips a week to a nearby park so the kids can play on the equipment while you jog around the track? As for swimming, you’ll have to find a local pool, but the kids can take lessons while you do laps. And don’t forget about sports. A backyard game of baseball, soccer, or football on the weekends might seem like more fun than work, but that’s what makes it the best kind of exercise.

Another fun family activity is yoga. As an adult, you likely suffer from a lot aches and pains due to a sedentary lifestyle. Even if you work out regularly, you may have trouble with strength and flexibility. You can get your kids on track for a healthy future and work on your own bodily woes by starting to incorporate yoga into your daily routine. The tenets of mind-body focus will serve your children well throughout their lives and a little yoga each day will tone muscle, increase range of motion, and ensure that your body feels great.

Sarah Harris writes for Adiamor diamond engagement rings, where you can find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for the one you love.