Physical fitness as a family

Staying at home most of the time has become the common for many families during the pandemic. The more time spent at home, the more inclined we become toward at home activities—lots of screens—for both kids and adults. But just because you may not be able to go to the gym, doesn’t mean you can’t be active.

Here are four ways to make a routine for your family:

Set Goals: Set specific, achievable goals. For example, instead of “Exercise more,” which is vague, you can say, “Take an hour walk every day.”

Plan, plan, plan (and reschedule or cancel if a conflict comes up): Choose times of the day when everyone is most likely stick to the routine. Start with 15-minute activities, so you can be sure to complete them.

Track Family Progress: Make a personalized activity calendar and put it on the fridge or in a location the family can see it. Mark down when activities are completed and celebrate progress.

Share Success: The more you workout, the prouder you’ll feel, and you can share that achievement with your family and friends.

Here are some ideas for activities to get you started:

• Celebrate special occasions with something active, such as a hike, sports game, a visit to the zoo, etc.

• Walk or bike instead of drive. If you must drive, find a spot at the far end of the parking lot and walk to your destination.

• Get the entire family involved in chores. Cleaning, vacuuming, laundry are all great ways to get active.

• Do yard work as a family. The more you work together, the faster the chores will get done, and sooner you can play as a family.

• Digging in the dirt and caring for a garden is a great workout that teaches kids about healthy eating (and gets them excited to eat the stuff they grew).

• Walk the dog! Your dog needs physical fitness, too. Don’t have a dog? Take a walk with your kids and count all the dogs or cats around your neighborhood.

• At the grocery store, kids should walk instead of riding in the cart. Task them with finding items on the shopping list.

• Take the stairs whenever possible.

• Go on a dinner walk. It helps with digestion.

• Start a new hobby as a family or train as a family for a charity run.