5 Fun Activities You Can Use to Exercise with Your Kids

For many people exercising is a chore but it doesn't have to be especially during the warmer months when your children are out of school. There are several activities that can be enjoyed by you and your children that are not necessarily "exercises" but are none-the-less calorie burning. Your older children may not enjoy these moments as much as younger children but it's worth the shot to get you and your family outdoors for some family time and exercise.

The Frankenstein Walk

It sounds strange that a "Frankenstein" is considered an exercise but this simple walk will burn calories and certainly be the cause of some giggles. The Frankenstein walk is just as it sounds.

Walk in an open area and kick one leg up at a time. As you do this raise the opposite arm and bring it down to touch your toes while keeping your back straight. You may not be able to bring your toes up too high if you're out of shape but after a couple of times you'll be accustomed to the movement and find it easier to perform. Also, hold your transverse abdominal (core) in tightly and you'll get a great ab work out.

Leap-frogs

This has been a long time favorite for young kids in gym class but that doesn't mean you can't do them with your kids on a sunny day. Head to your favorite park and leap-frog with your kids until they get bored.

Have your child sit in the crouching position, place your hands on her shoulders and hop over her. If your child is too small this may be a moment that you get to leap only once but they'll love the idea of climbing over you. The interaction is just as important as the "exercise."

Hopscotch

The great thing about hopscotch is it entails just as much movement to create the hopscotch squares as it does to play the game. Drawing the squares with chalk causes you to bend and twist in ways that will exercise your legs and waistline. Your kids will enjoy drawing the grid with you and love the fact you're hopping on the squares, as well.

Jump Rope

Burn some calories with this family friendly activity. Though it may take some extra coordination to get used to the ropes; it's a way to tone your legs and receive a great cardio workout.

Kick a Ball

You can play a traditional game of kickball if you have a family the size of the Duggar's but the average household is much smaller so spend a half an hour kicking the ball with your little ones instead. You may not even get to kick the ball but you will definitely get to chase your children around while they kick it. This simple activity can give you an easy thirty minutes of cardiovascular exercise and a child who is ready for bed when the time comes.