Family Fitness

Family Fitness

By, Tamara C. Tangney

So… You made another New Years Resolution to get into better shape. Getting to that gym in the cold weather and putting the kids into daycare, for most of us, is not that appealing. The easiest and most fun way to get fit is to include the kids. Showing your kids that fitness is a priority in your own life teaches them the importance of being active. This also helps to build a foundation of life long fitness and good health. I have personally experienced that providing an appropriate outlet to burn energy is beneficial to the family dynamic.

Here are some tips on family fitness that work for my family:

Make it fun.
Find a variety of activities. Kids tend to get bored of the same old bike ride every weekend. Go swimming. If weather and geographic location permits, alternate between swimming at the beach and the pool. Practice boxing and kickboxing using boxing gloves and a standing bag. Jump rope together. Sneak in a yoga class (many yoga centers have kids yoga classes offered at the same time as the adult class). We just started ice skating and rollerblading last year and have all greatly improved our skills together.

Join a club.
Think about joining a volkssport club. Volkssport clubs are walking clubs designed to be enjoyed by people of all ages, explains Liz Neporent, co-author of Fitness for Dummies. "They are a great way to meet other families -- something that adds to the fun of being active."

Hit the mall.
The whole family can get some exercise walking around and window shopping. Moms and Dads can wear ankle weights (hidden under your jeans of course!) on their ankles for some extra toning, strengthening and calorie burning power. In inclement weather, we hit the indoor mall and save the outdoor malls for nicer days (in Chicago, you have to be savvy in this way!).

Whatever it is that works for you and your family make sure everyone has the proper equipment to prevent injury. Family fitness can be a fun and effective way to workout if it is safe and appropriate for everyone involved.