Ten Ways to Workout with the Kids

Sneaky Ways to Exercise Without Hitting the Gym

By Amy Mullen, published Feb 22, 2006
Published Content: 232  Total Views: 1,006,085  Favorited By: 17 CPs
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Exercise is a very important part of life for everyone. Even if you aren't trying to lose weight the benefits of daily exercise are far reaching. The trouble is we are so busy we forget to make this a part of our day. I know even if I wanted to join a gym I'd have a hard time squeezing in the time let alone finding someone to take my little girl while I'm out.

Exercise doesn't have to be supervised in a gym or an hour-long workout via DVD. There are ways to incorporate exercise into your day without packing up a bag and heading to the gym. If you find little ways to sneak exercise into your day and include the kids you will all benefit from the results.

Hike

Depending on where you live the definition of hike may vary. If you live in a rural area take the kids on a long walk through the woods. Invite them to explore nature and join in the fun. If you aren't used to the exercise start off with small trips and make them long as you go.

If you live in a city or town take advantage of your local park. There is plenty to explore. Are you miles away from the nearest park? Take a few trips around the block. Walking is by far one of the easiest and beneficial exercises you can do for yourself and your kids.

Obstacle Course

This can be as simple or as complicated as you want it make it. Set up a course in your backyard or in your living room. Make things to climb over, around and through. Don't just watch your kids go though the course, do it yourself. Make up silly rules like "you must hop on one foot twenty times before running around the sandbox three times. Make it fun and interesting and you may forget you are exercising.

Take the Stairs

Forget the elevator and take the stairs wherever you go. At home you can use the stairs for a workout. Trying running up and down the stairs a few times. To make it an ever better workout hold one of your kids while you go up and down.

Play

Ten Ways to Workout with the Kids

Soup or veggie cans make great weights.

Credit: Amy Mullen

Copyright: Amy Mullen

Takeaways
  • If you own Wiggles CDs or DVDs these are a great workout for you and your kids.
  • Your kids will love going for bike rides with you.
  • Get out the little red wagon and pull the kids around the yard or around the block.
Did You Know?
Cleaning can be one big yawn fest but if you make it a game and include the kids it�ll be less of a chore.
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