As the weather turns colder, it’s tempting to curl up on the couch and stay put until spring. However, that’s not good for your body, or your kids’ bodies. In fact, this cooler weather is the perfect opportunity to get in some extra exercise where you can.
With kids, exercise has to be fun if they’re going to stick with it. You can’t just expect them to run laps or do 50 push-ups because you said to. Fortunately, no matter where you live, you’ll find plenty of great ways to get kids moving.
Instead of just going for a walk, consider heading to a local park or trail and taking a hike. Explore the great outdoors and see the beautiful fall colors up close and personal. Kids will have fun the entire time and in addition to exercise, they’ll get a chance to explore nature.
If you have a rec center or another facility in your community with a pool, swimming is a great exercise option to keep kids in shape during the winter months. Water aerobics and swimming strengthen a lot of muscles because of the unique resistance provided by the water and can help kids who play sports maintain their condition over the off-season.
As mentioned, part of the success of getting kids to exercise comes from making it fun. Find unique ways to exercise at home. Race up and down the stairs (carefully, and one at a time) for example, or play tag around the basement or backyard. Consider starting a family “gym” where you are all members and can work out together.
Almost every community has activities like karate, yoga, and other fitness and sports options that you can check out. Kids often enjoy these types of activities more because they’re engaging with their peers and working toward something. It’s also a great way to try new things before you commit.
It’s all about keeping the kids moving—however you manage to do that is up to you. The ideas here should get you started, but it doesn’t hurt to ask the kids what they might like to do, too. Sometimes, their answers may surprise you. Just remember that it’s not about lecturing them to get outside and stay active, but finding ways to engage them yourself. After all, the exercise won’t hurt you, either. Contact Schaumburg Seminoles to learn more!
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