Health & Fitness
Healthy Tip Tuesday: Get Moving!
In terms of healthy living, there are few things that are more beneficial to your family than working out together. Depending on the ages and preferences of your children, working out together may look like a walk in the park, backyard soccer, Just Dance on the wii, or a weekend backpacking trip. The important part is not what you do, but that you’re together and being active. Adding just 30 minutes of activity a few times a week will help you burn calories, improve energy levels, lower stress, bond with your kids, and become stronger than ever. Here are a few ideas for your family to try…
1. Play together! If your child is interested in a sport, play with them! Even if they’re not interested, they may become interested because it’s something fun to do with you. And, don’t worry about skimping on the supplies. The cheapest soccer ball at the store will be fine for your 5 year olds!
2. Go for a hike! There are some really beautiful trails in our area, including the Bridle Trail, which is flat and great for little ones. During the spring, expect the trails to be muddy, but that can be part of the fun!
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3. Do work! Yard work is definitely a calorie burner and something kids can help with. Their work might not be perfect, but you’ll teach them some great skills and you can enjoy the time outside together. If all else fails, make it a contest! My dad used to challenge my brother and me to see who could collect the most pinecones from our yard in the fastest time… sounds silly, but it’s a funny memory now.
4. Just dance! Whether you turn up the radio in the living room or use a video game as your guide, dancing is great stress relief and fun for your kids.
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5. Bounce around! There are many new trampoline parks in the area which provides fun and fitness for you and your kids, some of them even provide bootcamp style fitness classes.
6. Racquetball! This is a very specific recommendation… at the Waterbury Y you can make reservations to use the racquetball courts, which will help you feel even more committed to your workout. Not a member, no worries! Come down for a tour and get a free week pass. We even have extra racquets you can borrow.
How do you get moving as a family? Any local classes that you love to do together?
