Very few of us actually have the time to work out AND spend time together as a family, so why not wrap it all up into one event? Exercising as a family helps build the family unit and your glutes all at the same time! Check out these cool ways to get in shape and enjoy some good quality family time.
Take to the Streets-Going on a walk together has always been one of my family's favorite pastimes. We score some good exercise and get a chance to talk together. Also, the family pets get to join in. If you don't live in an area that is conducive to a family walk, then consider driving to a local field or park that has a track.
Hiking It-I always carry around a backpack in my van just in case it's a good day to go hiking at our local park. Get online and look for some parks in your area that offer some kid-friendly hiking trails; and equip the kids with everything they need for a fun hike, such as backpacks to hold water, snacks, and, of course, a field guide.
Dancing Machine-A family that dances together has fun together. Almost every evening, I put on some loud tunes while we run and dance around the house, picking up toys and getting ready for dinner. If you haven't used music as a motivator for kids to get moving, then try it today. Put on a favorite song (of theirs, not yours) and try to get a room clean before the song is over. It's kind of like a timer, but WAY funner! This even works for moms.
Bicycle Built for...Nine?-I has always been difficult for us to bike together as a family because of all the varied ages and stages. However, we finally found a way to make it work. One parent bikes with the older kids and gets a real workout. The other parent walks with the younger kids as they develop their biking skills. One day we will all be at a level where we can zoom down the street together, but not yet. Other options are to put little ones in a pull-along cart. These are much safer than the bike seats because they don't turn over if the bike takes a spill.
Gaming for Everyone-I never thought I would say it, but video games can actually be good quality family time as well as a way to get in shape together. Video game companies are responding to parents who get frustrated with the effects of video games (and if you have ever had a kid sitting on his rump while glued to a screen, then you know what I'm talking about). Try some of the new dancing or fitness video games as a family.
Remember, all it really takes is a little motivation. Get up and get moving, and bring your family along for the ride. Whether it's playing ball in the park or dancing in the living room. The important thing is to make it a fun family event.
Hannah Keeley is the founder of [http://www.totalmom.com] and the mother of seven kids. She is the author of "Hannah's Art of Home" and "Hannah Keeley's Total Mom Makeover," and has appeared on the Today show, Fox and Friends, and the Rachael Ray show.
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