Getting your whole family involved in physical activity shouldn’t require bribes or threats. If you plan it right—and create the right atmosphere—you can have them begging to exercise with you. Here are some helpful tips to get your family off the couch and in shape.
Choose an exercise video that every member of your family will enjoy. Or, if you’re not sure what they’ll like, let them take turns choosing. Search for that perfect DVD at your local library or online at sites. Is your husband a devoted golfer? There are workouts devoted to strengthening the muscles specifically used for playing golf. Even non-golfers will benefit from the exercises, and they might become motivated to try a new sport!
Take a hike! Hiking is a great way to get everyone out of the house and moving. Choosing a scenic trail can help familiarize younger children with the outdoors. Their new surroundings will surely spark questions and can turn the hike into a learning experience.
Have a competition. Whether it’s to see who can hula-hoop the longest or run the fastest, a friendly competition may be the perfect incentive for enticing your family off the couch. If your group isn’t all that competitive, then get them motivated to help a good cause. Many walking and running events enable you to raise money for charities. You can do a Google search for events in your area.
Throw a party. It could be at your local roller rink, at the beach, or in your own backyard. Parties don’t necessarily cost a lot. A beach party is always fun. Bring a volleyball and Frisbee, or whatever beach sports your family enjoys.
Be sure to keep plenty of healthy snacks available. Go ahead and pile on the fruit and veggies; your family needs the nutrients to maximum their energy levels. And remember, supplements like multivitamins and dietary drinks are useful, but don’t contain all the nutrients found in natural foods. In addition, remember that tired family members make for lousy workout buddies. Enforcing a decent bedtime ensures no one has any excuses when it comes time to get active.
Above all, make exercise look enticing. Keep it playful and positive. And soon, you’ll have one of the healthiest families on the block.