When was the last time you bonded with your family? Taking the time to do fun fitness activities with your loved ones can help improve everyone’s mood, energy, and overall health!
Are you ready to get your running shoes on and have some fun?
Go for a Walk
Going for a 30-minute walk is an inexpensive and easy way to start being physically active with your family. Walking is a great way to catch up, reduce your stress levels, and enjoy some fun conversations while soaking up some vitamin D. It’s also an inclusive activity where you can bring your dog along or invite friends or neighbours!
Ride Your Bikes Together
Bike riding as a family is a great way to exercise around your block. You can even head for the bike trails and enjoy the local parks. Consider riding your bikes to the grocery store, restaurant, or playground instead of taking the car. This can help save the planet and give you more time to spend with your family.
Try a New Hobby
Another great way to connect with your loved ones through physical activity is trying a new hobby. This could be a sport such as rock climbing, basketball, or swimming. Learning new skills can help sharpen your brain and broaden your social experiences! Choosing a sport that relies on teamwork can teach you valuable lessons about working together and improving communication.
Garden in Your Backyard
In the spring and summer, consider stepping out into your backyard and garden with your family! This can be a great way to save money and grow your fruits and vegetables while spending time together outside. Your backyard will come alive, and you’ll also be benefiting from reducing your stress levels. If you have little space or no backyard, you can always try container gardening! Grow your herbs and vegetables by using a large or small pot placed around your home. You can even put them outside if you have a balcony or porch.
Play Games
On a rainy day, consider playing a game that will get everyone moving. This could be games such as Twister or virtual fitness such as Wii Sports, Just Dance, or Beat Saber. These games can help create friendly competition while motivating everyone to move around! Playing can help children learn essential social and physical skills. When you make time for play, you also help your family feel unified as you learn and grow together.
The Importance of Family Fitness
When you make physical activity a daily routine for your family, it becomes easier for everyone to spend quality time together and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Choosing just one of these activities to try will help you improve health and strengthen your relationships. Pick something that will be fun for the whole family while also trying a variety of activities to see what works best for everyone. Remember to always discuss new exercise routines with your physician and know that the Ellerca Health team is ready to answer any questions you may have!
References:
“7 Hobbies To Keep Your Brain Active”. Medic Alert Foundation, 2020, https://www.medicalert.org.au/news/2020/12/15/7-hobbies-to-keep-your-brain-active.
“6 Simple Steps To Keep Your Mind Sharp At Any Age”. Harvard Health, 2020, https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/6-simple-steps-to-keep-your-mind-sharp-at-any-age.
Bongiorno, Laurel. 10 Things Every Parent Should Know About Play. 2021, https://www.naeyc.org/our-work/families/10-things-every-parent-play.
“Everything You Need To Know About Container Gardening”. Good Housekeeping, 2018, https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/gardening/a20707074/container-gardening-tips.
“Walking For Good Health”. Better Health Channel, 2021, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/walking-for-good-health.
