As families transition into the busy fall and back-to-school routines, maintaining an active lifestyle and staying connected becomes increasingly important. To support this, Experience Life magazine, published by Life Time (NYSE: LTH), has introduced 100 creative ideas to help families incorporate more physical activity into their daily lives. These suggestions aim to foster healthier, more balanced, and happier lives, encouraging families to prioritize wellness amidst their hectic schedules.
The ideas fall in eight key categories:
- Start Small: Starting with small things — taking a family walk around the block, walking the dog together, or making a journal of plants and animals they see — can help build sustainable habits and set the foundation for a more active lifestyle. Letting kids choose the activity gives them a chance to get involved and get excited.
- Make the Adventure Bigger: As families become more comfortable with regular movement, they can try expanding the scope of activities. This might include exploring new parks, hiking trails, or even planning active vacations. By making movement an adventure, families can create lasting memories while staying active.
- Make Your Home Movement-Friendly: Creating an environment that encourages physical activity is another key focus. This can be as simple as rearranging furniture to allow for more space to move or keeping equipment like yoga mats and resistance bands in common areas. Bring fun into the mix by setting up an obstacle course or having an after-dinner family dance party.
- Get Moving in the Backyard or at Your Local Park: Outdoor spaces provide excellent opportunities for family activities. From playing sports like Frisbee, soccer, or jump rope to climbing on the monkey bars, families can make outdoor time both fun and beneficial for good health.
- Include Older Family or Community Members: Physical activity is beneficial for all ages, and including older family members in movement activities can strengthen family bonds and ensure that everyone, regardless of age, enjoys the benefits of an active lifestyle. Try sports or games that accommodate a wide range of ages, including bowling, mini golf, or pickleball.
- Do a Task Together: Combining physical activity with household tasks adds movement without becoming an extra item on your to-do list. Activities like gardening, cleaning, or even washing the car are opportunities for movement, making chores more enjoyable and productive.
- Take a Fitness Class: For families looking to try something new, try participating in fitness classes together. Parent-child yoga classes, mixed-age group martial arts classes, or even small group personal training can get families moving together, learning new skills and staying motivated.
- Train for a Common Goal: Setting a common fitness goal can unite families in their pursuit of a healthier lifestyle. Whether it’s training for a charity run, a cycling event, or a hiking challenge, working toward a shared objective can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment.
“We know that families are busier than ever, and we were excited to identify many ways to connect, be active, and maximize together time,” stated Jamie Martin, Experience Life editor in chief and Vice President of Content Strategy at Life Time. “By sharing these ideas, and all the inspiring tips we share in Experience Life, we aim to empower everyone to live healthier, happier lives.”
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
