Families in America, regardless of age—from parents to children and teens—share a common challenge: many of us are not getting enough exercise. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, less than 5 percent of adults achieve the recommended 30 minutes of daily physical activity, and only a third of children engage in daily movement.
Cue the music from Sister Sledge! Whether you’re struggling to squeeze in workouts with your little ones in tow or the entire family has lost its fitness spark now that school is back in session, it’s time to train together.
While younger children may not be suited for box jumps or your regular pilates class, there are plenty of engaging activities that are perfect for the whole family, such as hiking, playing capture the flag, or creating fun obstacle courses at home. Alternatively, consider enrolling in a muddy obstacle course event like Tough Mudder, which caters to various fitness levels and ages while also providing motivation and memorable moments.
The CDC suggests that children and adolescents should participate in 60 minutes or more of daily physical activity, and incorporating fun is essential. “A family that plays together, stays together. If that play includes training or working out, even better!” says Grayson Wickham, DPT, CSCS, founder of Movement Vault. Kids learn by example; if they see you enjoying exercise, it will shape their attitude toward fitness. Instead of calling it a “workout,” why not refer to it as “playtime,” Wickham advises.
“When you make it enjoyable, you’re instilling a lifelong passion for fitness, which is increasingly important as childhood obesity (and obesity in general) continues to be a significant national concern,” Wickham explains. There are also numerous health benefits; “No medication can compare to the benefits of exercise,” he adds.
In addition to having fun and improving health, family workouts provide children with the chance to achieve success during physical activities, which fosters confidence and leadership skills. As for the bonding effects? We’ll consider those delightful bonuses.
If you want to partake in family exercise activities but don’t have kids, don’t hesitate to invite your dog to join in—pets love to play, especially when there’s mud involved!
Looking for some family fitness inspiration? Follow @tough_mudder for ideas!
