Get Active as a Family

If your time-crunched day leaves you feeling like you have to choose between fitness and family time, here's some good news: You can combine the two!
The benefits of making family time active time go far beyond physical fitness. Being active as a family also promotes family bonding, encourages time outdoors, and reduces time spent on sedentary activities like watching television or playing video games. Active family time is a great opportunity for you to model a positive attitude toward fitness for your kids and teach them healthy habits that will benefit them throughout their lives. It's also a chance for you to have some fun and play as if you're a kid again!
Need some ideas for activities that everyone will enjoy? Here are some to get you started:
Go for a bike ride.
Take a swim at the pool or lake.
Walk around a local track.
Hike a wilderness trail.
Walk along the beach.
Take a trip to the local rink for roller-, ice-, or in-line skating.
Play a game of catch or touch football.
Play at a local playground.
Jump rope or play hopscotch.
Walk around at the zoo.
Play tag, hide-and-seek, or keep-away.
Once you start brainstorming, no doubt you'll find there are all types of active pastimes you can enjoy as a family. So go ahead, ask your kids out on a "play date." You will be able to check exercise off your to-do list and enjoy spending quality time with your kids to boot!