Healthy Activities for the Whole Family

Having a healthy and active lifestyle can be hard to maintain in this busy, hectic time. It can be even harder when you're worried about the whole family.

If you're looking for fun ways to get the whole family involved, I've got a few activities that are sure to get them excited, especially the kids and grandkids.

Follow the Leader

Pick a line leader (switching to make sure each kid gets a chance), and line up in single file. Make your way through the house or the yard, and every few steps, do something different. You can skip, jump, hop on one leg, run around in circles, etc.

Each kid’s creative mind will come up with different movements to keep everyone entertained and active!

Dance

Put on your favorite music and dance around the house. If your kids or grandkids love watching the tv and you just can't seem to get them away from it, try dancing during the commercial breaks so they can get some exercise in.

Active Video Games

There are many different options out there now when it comes to video games and technology. If you're in the market to buy something for the kids or grandkids, you can purchase things like a Wii Balance Board that allows you to exercise by playing fun games. There are also attachments for the Xbox and PlayStation that can do the same thing.

Swim

Swimming can be fun and beneficial for all ages. It can help build endurance, strengthen muscles, and improve cardiovascular fitness. You can come up with a plethora of games to play in the pool, from water basketball to cannonball contests.

I Spy: Walk Edition

Who doesn’t love a good game of I Spy? Go visit a nature trail or even just take a walk down the street. You’ll be able to enjoy some wonderful scenery all while staying active, both physically and mentally, as you search for various things.

Simple Habits

• Take the stairs when you are out of the house, instead of the elevator.
• Walk to the store if it's close enough (and take the kids or grandkids with you).
• When going out somewhere, park a bit further from the entrance so you can get more steps in.

When you set these simple examples for your kids, they will carry the good habits with them as they grow.

Have Suggestions?

Let me know what topics you're interested in, and I'll do my best to include them in future blogs! Email me at mark@outbackoil.com