Still Got It: 7 Tips for Mums Who Want to Combine Fitness with Family Life

It goes without saying that people of all ages need daily exercise. Physical activity not only keeps one healthy and fit, but it also reduces stress and promotes feelings of contentment and happiness. Many parents make an effort to carve out time during the week for themselves and their children to get exercise. Typically, adults will go for a run or hit the gym, while children participate in afterschool sports or dance classes. However, families need not split up in order to get physical activity! Getting exercise as a family can be more beneficial, because, in addition to the aforementioned benefits, family exercising naturally results in spending more time together, encouraging one another, and becoming closer overall. For moms who want to combine fitness and family life, there are several types of exercises to choose from, including taking a family fitness class, hopping on bicycles, participating in weight lifting, jumping in the pool, picking up a new sport, walking around the block, and taking a hike.

1. Take a Family Fitness Class

It is a common misconception that fitness classes are only for adults. In reality, many gyms offer classes that cater to all ages. For example, one fitness class that is loved by both kids and adults is karate. This class accommodates people of all ages and levels because each person is able to work at their own level and advance at their own pace. Everyone in the class supports and encourages each other while becoming stronger and gaining discipline. Another fitness class that is appropriate for all ages is yoga. Like karate, yoga can be practised by different ages and levels at the same time because participants are able to perform poses in both modified and full forms. In addition to becoming stronger through yoga, participants are able to practice mindfulness and breathing techniques which can ultimately reduce stress and induce relaxation. More examples of family fitness classes can be found on various websites, such as momsintofitness.com.

2. Hop on a Bicycle

Another option for moms who want to involve the entire family in physical activity is to go for family bike rides. Family bike rides can be appropriate for all ages, from the very young to the very old. Special bike safety seats are available and can be mounted on adult bikes to accommodate infants. In addition, small covered trailers with safety harnesses can be used for toddlers who are not able to sit in the infant seat anymore but who do not quite ride independently yet. There are even copilot bikes available that can be attached to an adult bike for a child to ride on. As children get older, they are able to ride bikes of their own. Family bike rides can be really fun ways for families to spend time exploring and exercising together.

3. Participate in Weight Lifting

Most people think that lifting weights is strictly an adult fitness activity. However, this is not the case. Children can lift weights too! If done appropriately, it can be healthy and fun for them, as well as a great way for moms to combine fitness and family. Family weight lifting can be done at home or at gyms that allow children to participate. Kids should be taught to perform all of the movements correctly and be supervised until they get the hang of it. In general, they need to use light weights and perform fewer repetitions and sets than adults do, in order to prevent injury.

4. Jump in the Pool

Swimming is one of the best exercises that a person can get, and it is suitable for all ages. Not only does swimming provide an excellent low-impact cardiovascular workout it also is a form of strength training. It is even appropriate for those with asthma or other health concerns. Swimming laps is great for families because everyone can work out at their own pace or if desired, get a little friendly competition going. In addition to laps, simply hopping in the pool and playing together can provide exercise, along with lots of family fun. As an added bonus, practising swimming as a family can result in strong swimmers, which can turn out to be a lifesaving skill.

5. Pick Up a New Sport

For the mom with highly active kids, a great way to merge family with fitness is to pick up a new sport together. Sports like tennis, basketball, soccer, and flag football are perfect for members of a family who love lots of nonstop motion for extended periods of time. These sports are also wonderful for families that have a competitive nature. Some other benefits of playing sports as a family include encouraging leadership roles, developing a sense of camaraderie, and learning to support one another.

6. Walk Around the Block

Some parents desire to combine physical fitness and spending time together but feel they cannot do so due to time constraints and responsibilities. However, exercising as a family does not have to take a lot of time or equipment, nor is travelling to a gym or sports field required. Family exercise can be as easy as stepping outside one’s front door! Taking a walk around the block is a great way to get exercise and bond. Walks can be leisurely, allowing family members the chance to chat, or brisk, getting everyone’s heart rate up.

7. Take a Hike

Want to spend time together as a family and get physical activity as well? Take a hike! Hikes are perfect for all ages. Trails are available for all ages and fitness levels. The benefits of hiking are well-known. A hike can get a person’s heart rate up, as well as provide strength training. It can increase bone density and lower blood pressure. An added bonus of hiking is being out in nature. The fresh air and sunshine can help a person to feel less stressed and more at peace.

Since all members of a family need physical activity to stay fit and healthy, why not exercise together? Family exercise not only improves members’ overall health, but it also promotes trust and positive relationships with one another. Family members who exercise together tend to get along better and be more supportive of one another. They are also able to learn from one another and grow closer. There are many different types of exercise that can be done family-style, therefore it is likely that every family can find something to enjoy together.

Fancy checking out another post? Just click here!

Pin it!