Five Fathers Day Tips To Get The Family In Shape
Five Fathers Day Tips To Get The Family In Shape
Having five kids makes me all too aware of the challenges of staying in shape when there are children to care for, but with a little creativity and commitment anyone can get into great shape while involving the entire family and even have some bonding time in the process. Here are five easy tips to help keep Dad and the whole family in tip-top shape.
1. Forget the video games and play real ones.
While the Wii is a popular choice for indoor activity, try reaching for a ball instead of a remote this summer. Go outside with the kids; you will burn more calories, have more interaction and create some timeless family memories in the process.
2. Get a family membership at your local gym or community fitness facility and use it.
Many family oriented fitness facilities like the YMCA offer programs for kids and adults. If you get a family membership you can put the kids in a class while you workout in the gym. The fact that you have to take the kids to a class on a regular basis makes it more likely that you will exercise regularly as well! And you will be setting a good example.
3. Cook healthy meals together.
Pick up a healthy cookbook at the library or find some healthy recipes online and start creating some fun foods with the kids. They will be more likely to eat healthy foods that they helped to cook themselves and you’ll benefit from eating better as well.
4. Get bicycles for the whole family and go biking.
Not only is cycling great exercise during the warmer months, but it is an activity that the entire family can enjoy together and, for Dads with any leg problems, cycling can be easier on the joints. If you have young children and are afraid of cycling on the roads, find a local park and enjoy the fresh air – just be sure to wear your helmets!
5. Set small step family fitness goals.
Set some simple milestone for each member of the family like losing a few pounds or being able to run around the block several times with age appropriate goals. The kids will see to it that you reach yours and will be eager to accomplish theirs as well!
Fathers serve as a role model for their kids every day whether you are trying to or not. So whether your behavior is positive or negative it will impact the little ones who look up to you. That being said why not involve them in healthy activities so everyone benefits? Have a Happy Fathers Day!
Kevin Richardson is an award winning health and fitness writer, one of the most sought after personal trainers in New York City and creator of Naturally Intense High Intensity Training. Get a copy of his free weight loss ebook here.
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