© Shutterstock

What does it actually mean to get fit as a family? -

There are a combination of lifestyle factors that will determine your level of health and fitness as a family, namely your diet and exercise regime.

© Shutterstock

What does it actually mean to get fit as a family? -

However, things such as your sleep and workload also play an important role in your overall well-being as a family.

© Shutterstock

Find the time -

Yes, we are all busy. We work, the kids have school, and then we have multiple daily activities and chores. But there is always some time when the family should gather, so try to make an effort to make it happen.

© Shutterstock

Plan it -

Schedule your family workouts the best you can in advance. This way everyone will be ready for it.

© Shutterstock

Alternative -

On days that you can't exercise together, but you still have some time together, try to get everyone together in the kitchen to help prepare a healthy family meal.

© Shutterstock

It’s good for everyone -

“When we can share in an activity together, that’s more fun and more sustainable and more exciting,” says pediatric cardiologist Takeshi Tsuda.

© Shutterstock

Benefits of getting fit -

There are numerous health benefits to getting fit as a family, for both the parents and the children. These include improved sleep, a better immune response, and less stress.

© Shutterstock

Benefits of getting fit -

Other benefits include obesity prevention, muscle strength, improved cardiovascular health, better hormone levels, and more energy.

© Shutterstock

What activities can families do to get fit? -

Of course, physical activity is at the core of getting fit as a family, and there are numerous ways to exercise as a family, from indoor to outdoor workouts and even household chores.

© Shutterstock

Activities -

Now, let’s take a look at the several options available, depending on your kids’ age.

© Shutterstock

Ages 0-1 -

Go for a stroll with your baby—and make it a brisk one. Believe it or not, this is not only beneficial for the parents, but also for the child.

© Shutterstock

Ages 0-1 -

Being introduced to movement early on is good for children. “Children learn by observation. If you’re a static family, it’s likely your children will follow in your footsteps–or lack of them! Part of encouraging your child to move more is doing more yourself,” explains Ian Parkin, a former pro cricketer and Head of Sports Performance at a UK school.

© Shutterstock

Ages 0-1 -

Sensory play and movement in general are very important in a child’s development. Other than playing with them, you can also try activities such as yoga designed specifically for parents and babies.

© Shutterstock

Ages 2-5 -

At this age, you will find that kids want to explore the world around them; they will walk, run, climb, fall over—you name it.

© Shutterstock

Ages 2-5 -

This is how they develop the necessary motor skills for life, including balance, coordination, and flexibility.

© Shutterstock

Ages 2-5 -

Formal exercise routines may not be the best option at this age range, but you can certainly dance along to a song with your child and have fun!

© Shutterstock

Ages 2-5 -

Other activities include kicking a ball, playing tag, or even going on a treasure hunt in the backyard for a more sensorial experience. Just keep it simple and fun.

© Shutterstock

Ages 6-10 -

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-intense physical activity per day for children in this age group. This is where the fun family workouts really begin!

© Shutterstock

Ages 6-10 -

A really easy and cool activity you can do as a family is going for a bike ride. Whether this is around the neighborhood or you go to a specific place to ride your bicycles, cycling is a great family activity.

© Shutterstock

Ages 6-10 -

It's time to play ball! And by that we mean basketball, football, baseball, softball—you name it. In this age range, kids and adults alike can really have a great time playing with a ball, regardless of the sport.

© Shutterstock

Ages 6-10 -

Other physical activities you can do as a family include jumping rope, playing frisbee, and rollerblading.

© Shutterstock

Ages 6-10 -

This is also a great age range to go swimming as a family. And another great activity that can get you fit as a family is simply walking together.

© Shutterstock

Ages 6-10 -

Children in this age range can also help out with household chores. Make it vigorous and fun, and get everyone involved!

© Shutterstock

Ages 11-13 -

As they grow older, children should continue to engage in activities they enjoy, and so should you. This is the time to get stronger, faster, and healthier together.

© Shutterstock

Ages 11-13 -

Bodyweight exercises are a great way to start developing some strength. Movements such as push-ups and pull-ups can be a great workout.

© Shutterstock

Ages 11-13 -

With bodyweight movements, just make sure your kids do them progressively (e.g. begin by doing push-ups with the knees on the floor).

© Shutterstock

Ages 11-13 -

A bit of healthy family competition can make things more interesting as well. “Exercise can start getting competitive here, but keep it fun and relaxed. Children (and adults) love to experience physical development and beating personal bests,” says Mike Stevens, a Les Mills Born to Move instructor.

© Shutterstock

Ages 13+ -

If teenagers pick up exercise as part of their routines, they are more likely to stick to it for the rest of their lives. Having the family involved in physical activity is a big plus, for everyone.

© Shutterstock

Ages 13+ -

With kids in this age range, the whole family can get involved in more challenging workouts, such as going for a run or hiking in the mountains.

© Shutterstock

Age 13+ -

More demanding sports, such as skateboarding, combat sports, or skiing, can be a great way for the family to come together and get fit.

© Shutterstock

The time is now -

Regardless of your children's age, it’s the perfect time to start eating better and getting active as a family. So don't hesitate—start now!

Sources: (Forbes) (Vitality Magazine)

See also: Family-friendly games to play at home

© Shutterstock