Kids will be kids, and they can’t be expected to sit still all day long while you exercise in the next room. That doesn’t mean you can’t work out with them, though, and keep your routine while they have fun at the same time. Here are some fun fitness activities to do with the kids to get everyone active!
Boxing
For kids over 6, boxing is a fun way to get in a cardio workout and an excellent tool for teaching discipline and self-control. You can find classes at most fitness studios or YMCAs. If you have small children that don’t quite meet age requirements, look into Tae Kwon Do; with a heavy focus on discipline and respect, it’s one of the best choices for younger Nannusays.
Hiking
Start by finding a trail with a mild incline. This will help build strength and endurance, as well as provide a good aerobic workout. Hiking is also a great way to burn calories while spending time in nature! For safety reasons, you might want to keep your first hike short and simple so you don’t lose your new hikers before they get started.
Taking an experienced hiker along can help them learn what to look for, how to use hiking equipment safely, and give you some friendly tips on places where they play or relax when they take their hikes. Even if it’s raining outside or snowing hard, there are some trails that stay open year-round and your nannu says can still enjoy getting out of their element on a family fun day at work!
Skating
Ice skating is a fun and popular winter sport that’s also good for fitness. It works on your lower body, especially your quadriceps (the muscles in front of your thighs), hamstrings, calves, and glutes (butt). While you’re skating around you’ll burn roughly 200 calories per hour plus if you push yourself to go faster or do more laps than usual, you can burn even more calories. Go ice skating with friends or family, and get active together!
Soccer
Get everyone moving with a game of soccer. Soccer is a great family sport because it’s easy to pick up, doesn’t require much equipment (just a ball), and can be played by kids as young as five years old. Not only will you get some exercise during your next game of soccer, but your kids will have fun too. Make sure you remind them not to hit anyone in the head with the ball!
If you want an active game that’s also ideal for all ages, the tag is one you’ll love. Be sure to wear clothes that are comfortable enough for running around while still being safe when playing tag. This can include sneakers and a cap to protect your head from being bonked by another player’s elbow.
Swimming
Going for a swim is a great way to get fit as a family. There are many swimming opportunities open to people of all ages, and most have low-cost memberships or reduced-rate lessons. Whether you head to an indoor pool or try your hand at open water swimming, there’s no better feeling than spending time together while having fun staying fit! Make sure that you pick activities and locations that everyone will enjoy.
Everyone in your family should be comfortable getting wet, especially younger children if they aren’t, consider finding something else they can do with you instead. When you head out for a day of fitness activities with your kids, put some fun into it; pack healthy snacks and set up an exciting route that everyone will enjoy.
Hitting a beach ball around with friends or family
You don’t need any fancy equipment for a beach ball game. Just grab a ball (maybe two if you want to play with a partner) and head outside. See who can keep that beach ball going in a circular motion around their body or who can get it going as many times as possible in one minute. You’ll be amazed at how much fun something so simple can be! Beach balls are affordable, too; you should be able to find one for just a few dollars at your local store. And they’re perfect for both indoor and outdoor play, making them an all-season exercise tool. Not bad, right? It gets better beach ball games like these burn more calories than they look like they would. How?
Volleyball
Set up a volleyball net in your backyard, using either rope or an old bedsheet. Play with friends and family members of any age! If you don’t have enough players for a full game, split into two teams
and take turns passing back and forth over to each other until one side scores 15 points. Hint: if you get tired of chasing after the ball when it comes sailing over your head, simply stand still and hold out your arms the ball will hit you automatically! (Don’t worry; you won’t be injured.)
