Family Fitness for the Holidays

By Dalton Harris, CSCS

When working out with family, it is often overlooked the importance of using recreational activities as a means of exercise.  These things can include young children, and it is often the most influential in sustaining healthy exercise habits in children as they grow older.  This is also a great way for the adults in the family to get exercise without being away from their family.  As the holiday is nearing, many people do not exercise due to the desire to spend time with family that are out of school or off work during this holiday season. 

What Activities Should I Do?

The activities that can involve the whole family may include going on a hike.  This is a great activity that will utilize the cardiorespiratory system.  This is a great system to utilize, and the use of cardio regularly can reduce the effect of noncommunicable diseases such as metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and heart disease.  Another great activity would be a sports activity your child may be interested in such as basketball, soccer, or tennis. These sports will help you get your activity in for the day but get the family time you desire during this time.

What are the benefits of Family exercise?

The benefit of exercising with your family is reinforcing healthy habits.  Small children are influenced largely by their parents and oftentimes want to be just like their mom, dad, aunt, or uncle.  Knowing this, it is important to model good health sustainable practices that your children can carry on throughout their lifespan.  So, maybe it has not been practiced at this point, but maybe a holiday family game or activity can be established this holiday season that will help establish these healthy practices.