5 Ways to Exercise as a Family

The best way to get in a workout is to exercise as a family. Sure, you are busy with work and having to take care of your kids. However, keeping yourself in shape and healthy will not just benefit you, it will help the whole family. Everyone, old and young, needs daily physical activity. How do you get your family to exercise together? Here are a few ways. 

Make it a Game
An after dinner game of tag will get your blood flowing. Not special equipment needed for this childhood classic game. Younger kids will especially love it if you indulge in a game of tag with them. Playing with your kids carves out one on one time with them, as well as, keeping you and the family in shape. 

Walk
Work in a daily walk with the family. The best part of walking is that it can be done anywhere. Park further away when you go to the grocery store or do a few laps with the family in the mall. If you have a dog, walking is a great way to get the animal and the family exercise. Walking is easy and informal—perfect for a family activity.

Train Together

Participating in a race, like a 5K, is a great way to get the whole family motivated to exercise.  Even younger kids can get in on the action. Wearing matching shirts and name your family team for more fun. This is a wonderful way to bond as a family and get regular workouts.

Family Fitness Challenges
Nothing motivates better than some competition. Come up with a prize that everyone in the family would be eager to “win” and determine the time frame for the challenge. Have each family member to come up with a fitness task like 10 jumping jacks, walking a mile, or 10 push ups for everyone to aim to do every day. Record the challenges on a chart so the whole family can see the progress. You all will be in shape before you know it.

Dance
Yes, singing and dancing counts as an exercise. Turn up the volume when doing household chores and get your dance on. Your kids will have a blast. Have  a dance off after dinner. However you do it, dancing is a fun way to encourage physical activity. 

Family exercise doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming—it should be downright fun!