As we spend more and more time plugged in and settled on the
couch, it’s increasingly important that we make fitness a fun activity for
kids. When children learn from your example, they will lead more active
lifestyles and set themselves up for a lifetime of cardiovascular health. Here
are some ways to make fitness fun for kids:
Games
What kinds of games do you like to play? Get the family
together in the backyard for a game to get your family up and moving in a fun
way. Here are some ideas for types of games:
- Backyard games: While the barbecue is heating up, this is a good time to get the family active in a backyard game of croquet, ring or beanie bag toss, or bocce ball. All are easy, old-fashioned fun that can be enjoyed by every member of the family.
- Running games: Whether you have a few kids over after school or a whole birthday party full of energetic kids, they’ll enjoy playing running games such as tag, spider, red rover, freeze-tag, or even kick the can.
- Basketball / driveway games and activities: Younger kids might enjoy hopscotch, jumping rope, riding a big wheel or whirling in a hula hoop. An energetic eight-year-old could love jumping up and down on a pogo stick or trying her hand at walking on stilts. Your older daredevil might enjoy riding a scooter or a skateboard, or possibly burning a few hundred calories per hour roller blading. Older kids might enjoy four square, basketball, and related games such as PIG or HORSE.
- Ball games: Toss a baseball or football, play volleyball, tetherball, or play bocce ball.
- What about a family Olympics? You could set up categories and prizes – winner can choose who empties the dishwasher next week, or winner gets breakfast in bed.
GREAT NEWS! I have a powerful
tip sheet that I’d love to share with you that includes more information on
encouraging family fitness.
Develop healthier fitness habits in your family by emailing me at janet@finetunedfamilies.com and
enter the phrase “family fitness.”
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