Outdoor Fitness for the Whole Family
By Genevieve Cunningham
Exercise is something that is important for the whole family. Everyone -- from kids to the elderly -- should be exercising on a regular basis. Why? Because exercise is about so much more than weight loss. It's about weight loss and maintenance, sure, but it's also about strong muscles, flexibility, stable moods, and overall quality of life. Exercise makes us healthier, plain and simple. And if we take that exercise outside, we're doubling the benefits! So can you actually get your whole family outside and moving? Yes! To get everyone moving toward better health, take a look at these outdoor fitness ideas that everyone in your family can enjoy.
Walking or Hiking
Walking is such a great activity. You can do it alone, or you can do it with your entire family. You can use your own backyard, a local park, or a track. It's something that everyone can enjoy, and it's so low-impact, you can literally carry on conversations with your loved ones while you burn those calories. This is a great option for families with members of all ages. And if you want to take it up a notch or add an educational aspect, you can take the family hiking. Get some shoes, find a spot, and help your family grow to love movement through simple walking as a family.
Bike Riding
If your kids are old enough and you have the equipment, another great option is to go biking. Bike riding is a ton of fun. It's so much fun that for a while, you'll forget that you're working out at all. Of course, it really is a good workout. Riding together for an hour or so may have everyone burning 500 calories or more! If your family is a little older and is up for some adventure, get some bikes, find some trails, and have a blast.
Playing
Play is always encouraged in families. With little kids, this is probably the easiest option. Go outside and play with a ball or chase the kids around the yard. As your kids get older, you may move on to playing actual games -- soccer, basketball, or whatever your own kids find interesting. Even though it may not seem like it at the time, playing will definitely help you burn calories and stay in shape. And in the meantime, you'll be building incredible bonds with your children and everyone else involved in the games.
Getting outside means getting the sun on your skin and fresh air in your lungs. And exercising at the same time? You're building muscle and better health too. It's a win-win situation! Use these ideas to get those you love outside and moving regularly to build a healthy lifestyle that will last for good.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Glen Allen, Va.