Family Fun & Fitness

Let's face it, we're all super busy!!! When we have extra time on our hands, we'd rather spend it with our family than exercising at the gym. The next time you have 20 minutes or an hour to spare, why not combine the two, family + fitness, and have fun with both?

Here are a few ideas to get you started

Play at the Park - Hop on your bikes and head out to the nearest park. Then swing, slide, climb, pull, step or balance for a few minutes on the different pieces of playground equipment. Top it all off with a good old fashion game of tag.

Have a Ball on a Body Ball - If you have multiple body balls, start out by performing safe and simple body ball exercises. Then, see if your children or spouse can copy you by performing the same exercise, using their ball. Repeat this exercise a few times until they have it down pat. Then move onto the next one. If you have only one ball, you can pass, bounce, roll, or kick the ball to family members. Do this for about 20 minutes while listening to energizing music - you'll get fit without realizing it!

Walk the Route Less Traveled - Walking is a great time for family members to catch up with each other. There are numerous ways to add adventure and excitement to your walks, while providing educational learning opportunities, as well:

• Maps: Teach your children the basics about maps. Have them use their new knowledge to map out the route or trail you'll walk.
• Pedometers: Challenge each family member to see who can walk the most steps in a given day or week. Have them chart the steps they've taken over a month's timeframe. Pedometers come with a variety of other features and functions you can track for fun, too.
• Location: Take the route less traveled for your next family walk. Have each family member pick out a new place they'd like to walk. Maybe it's the zoo, a mall or a hiking trail at a state park. Take turns walking together at each member's chosen location.
• Strength Training: Add some variety while burning extra calories by incorporating resistance bands or weights into your walks. You'll love the added benefit of combining your cardio and strength routines.

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