1. Make a Game of It
It is important to keep family fitness fun, especially when children are involved. It will then seem less like a chore and the kids may actually look forward to exercise. Go to the park or take a hike. Spend one hour playing games like tag, red light-green light or family tee-ball and touch football. If this doesn't sound fun, stay inside, turn on fun music and boogie for half an hour.
2. Get Creative
Find creative ways to introduce fitness and a healthy lifestyle to your family. Make a rule that if someone watches TV, commercials must be spent on a stair climber, doing jumping jacks or doing squats. Incorporate chores by turning toy clean-up into a race, or make a basketball game out of throwing dirty clothes in a hamper.
3. Input From Every Family Member
Allow every family member to choose an activity and make a list of possible activities to choose from. This list might include walks, bike rides, dance and fitness videos or sports. The variety in activities will prevent boredom and will make exercise seem less like a chore.
4. Stay Committed
Set a good example for your kids by staying committed to a healthy lifestyle. Don't allow time-off or breaks in routine unless it can't be helped. If you stay enthusiastic and upbeat about it, your kids will follow suit. Kids will then learn to make fitness a permanent part of their lives.
5. Small Things Matter
If starting a complete family fitness program seems too daunting, start small. Park at the far edge of the mall parking lot in order to walk farther. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator. When picking up or dropping off at school, don't pull up all the way to the front door. Walk to the nearest convenience store instead of driving. Have your child walk around the grocery store instead of riding in a cart. Chances are, your child won't even notice these changes.
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