Fitness Ideas for Families

**Note: the following advice comes solely from the writer's personal and childhood experience. The writer is not a paid health professional or employee of any health-related organization, and does not have a college degree specializing in any health-related field.

Let's face it, these days it's becoming increasingly impossible to stay active and exercise on a regular basis. Between work hours, school schedules, and family responsibilities, a "healthy lifestyle" has become a foreign concept to many Americans. And for married couples raising children, it can be downright frustrating to even attempt any form of physical stimuli. But rest assured. You are not alone in your frustration. And, fortunately, there is hope. Here are some helpful hints and tips on ways to exercise as a family, while simultaneously building some lasting childhood memories for your kids.

Go On an Evening Bike Ride Together

Children of all ages have enjoyed the American pastime that is the bicycle for generations. If you have children who are old enough to learn the basic of pedaling and balance, this may be the perfect activity for your family. Besides being a relatively inexpensive hobby (my parents purchased my first several bikes from local thrift stores), biking can be a healthy, aerobic way to get back in shape and work out those leg and upper thigh muscles. And as an aerobic activity, it has been proven that cycling on a regular schedule can greatly reduce an individual's chances of contracting heart disease or struggling with high blood pressure and/or obesity. Rough calculations have even cited that a cyclist covering short distances on a daily basis can reduce his/her risk of death from much of the aforementioned by up to 22 percent (www.modalshift.org).

But besides helping to enhance your physical body, cycling has also been shown to improve one's emotions, mood, and even personality quirks. According to the official website of the National Cycling Strategy (www.nationalcyclingstrategy.org.uk), moderate aerobic exercise such as cycling has been shown to "reduce levels of depression and stress, improve mood and raise self-esteem, and has also been found to relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome." (Cycling and Health: www.bupa.co.uk). Further research has even proven that cyclists breathe in fewer automobile fumes than drivers.

Plan your family bike outings during the evening hours, sunset in particular, when there is still an ample amount of daylight available, but a significantly lower heat index. Most children, younger ones especially, will tire more easily in the heat and will be more prone to get sick and complain. As a parent, you want the outing to be fun, exciting, and healthy all at the same time. Avoid biking on busy roads or traveling through bustling intersections when younger children are involved and always practice good road safety, even in a quiet neighborhood or subdivision. And if you happen to have a camera handy, don't hesitate to snap off a few pictures during your biking adventure. Your kids will enjoy the memories one day (not to mention, you'll have something to embarrass them with in front of their future boyfriends and girlfriends).

Invest in a Jogging Stroller

If your children are still young, you simply can't go wrong here. Baby jogger performance strollers are increasingly becoming all the rage among new moms and moms-to-be, particularly those who want to work off the post-pregnancy baby weight. "What is a jogging stroller?" you say. Well for starters, it doesn't even resemble a typical stroller. Outfitted with two rear wheels and one front wheel, it is more akin to an oversized tricycle than a baby transportation vehicle.

Higher end models ($300-$420) come loaded with several outstanding features, including a specialized V-brake for increased braking power, a 3-panel multi-position sun canopy to aid in blocking direct sunlight to the child, back seat storage compartments, a 100lb. weight capacity, and many more. The stroller works by utilizing the speed produced by the runner/jogger, while simultaneously protecting the child from any harsh wind. Not to mention, the majority of young children find the high-speed rides largely entertaining and enjoyable.

Several users have left positive comments and feedback on www.joggingstroller.com, noting how convenient the disassembling of the strollers actually is. This makes transporting them in your vehicle all the more simple and efficient.

Visit a Local Pool

If you have children who are old enough to swim or learn how to swim, considering looking into local YMCAs or other fitness facilities that will offer free or affordable swimming. First and foremost, always check on regular lifeguard duties at the pool you choose. The safety of yourself and your children is priority number one.

As a physical activity, swimming makes use of almost all the body's muscles required for continuous and regular movement, while saving you the weight of your body (as experienced in walking, jogging, or running). In essence, your weight is suspended by the water into which your body is immersed. Regular swimming can help build muscle strength and increase your physical endurance, all the while providing cardiovascular benefits that can last a lifetime. Proper blood circulation, healthy breathing intervals, and calorie burning are all lasting effects of proper swimming activities (www.benefitsofswimming.com).

Take Your Dog Jogging

Many animal lovers are familiar with this one. If your family owns a dog of a large enough breed that has grown comfortable with leashes, considering going for an evening jog or walk around your neighborhood, subdivision, or at a local park. Most animal-loving children will enjoy an afternoon out with your family's favorite pet.

As family schedules continue to become more and more hectic, why not gradually attempt to implement some of the aforementioned tips and advice into your weekly routines? Your family may not only feel better physically, but just may develop some deeper and lasting bonds with one another, building memories that will last a lifetime.