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Family Fitness
by Arnold Geignert
http://www.fitmefitness.com
It~s hard enough these days to make time for personal
fitness, but how can you ever find enough time for a
family to exercise together? Everyone~s schedules are so
diverse that it becomes increasingly difficult as the
children grow older to find a time that is convenient for
all to meet and share fitness time. But it can be done,
and here are a few tips on how to do it.
1. Map out all essential scheduling needs. In other words,
work from a calendar that has school, work, and other
important commitments marked on it. These times typically
cannot be changed, except during holiday breaks or
occasional leaves. Then look at the time slots you have
left. These may include periods like weekend afternoons
or some weekday evenings. Check with each family member
to be sure that everyone is free at that time as planned.
2. Find an activity that everyone enjoys. Hiking, jogging,
swimming, or volleyball are great ways of sharing family
time while keeping active and staying fit. Make a list of
family fitness options and ask everyone to vote for
their favorites. Alternate the time spent on each fitness
activity so everyone gets to do something they enjoy.
3. Family members will likely have varied needs or limits
that need to be considered when planning an activity.
Make accomodations for differences in age, size, strength,
endurance, and skill. Try to create a win-win where those
who can do more are allowed to while those who need to
do less rest or move to an alternate activity. Plan each
fitness activity in a way that is challenging and fun for
all, but not overwhelming for anyone.
4. Don~t be obsessive about family fitness time. If
someone can~t make it on a certain day, the others may be
able to exercise anyway. Avoid overemphasizing
competition; those who consistently "lose" may be less
inclined toward participating consistently. Be flexible
when arranging schedules. Family fitness time should be
fun, not a burden.
Being physically active as a family is a great way to keep
fit and healthy as a family as well as a way to spend time
and have fun together. It will not only make each one of
you healthier but also help you cultivate a life-long
habit and activity routine that will be passed through the
generations of your family. If you have not tried enjoying
physical fitness as a family, do so now!
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