Get Moving with the Whole Family this Spring

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Spring is great time to increase your activity and exercise and carry it through the rest of the year. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, only 1 in 3 children are physically active each day, and less than 5% of adults participate in 30 minutes of daily physical activity. Getting the whole family involved in exercise helps create a support system, healthier habits, and lasting motivation.

 

Give These Family-Friendly Activities a Try

Go Hiking or Biking. Hop on your bike or grab your gym shoes and hit the trails. It is a great time of year to walk or cycle on nearby sidewalks, bike trails, or even at a park. If it has been a while since you have had your bike out, don’t forget to put air in the tires and give it a little spring tune-up before you set out. And always wear a helmet.

Outdoor Games. We have been waiting all winter to get outside and play, so make the most of your time outdoors. Games are not just for kids; you can get the whole family involved. Think about organizing a backyard kickball game, or spend some time playing catch, badminton, or volleyball. Sidewalk chalk games like hopscotch are another great way to get moving. If you are feeling creative, try setting up a small obstacle course in the backyard and race each other to the finish. If your yard does not offer a lot of space, try searching for a park with room for play.

Spring Cleaning. Organize a room, clean up a mess, or add to a donation pile. However, you choose to clean, think about getting the whole family to participate. Spring cleaning is a great way to be active and productive at the same time. Stay motivated by turning it into a game or cranking up the music while you clean.

Try a Scavenger Hunt. Add a little adventure to your springtime activities with a scavenger hunt. Create a list of items that could be found in nature and hike until you or your family members find them. If the weather isn’t cooperating, opt for an indoor scavenger hunt by hiding notes with activities on them such as jumping jacks or mountain climbers.

Lunchtime or After Dinner Walks. The temperature is starting to warm up, and the sun is staying out longer. It is the perfect time of year to add in a walk or two during your day. Lunchtime is a good spot to fit in an active break by going for a quick walk. When combined with a nutritious lunch, it can help boost your energy to finish your workday strong. You can also choose to walk with the whole family after dinner. After-dinner walks can be a great stress reliever at the end of the day and can help you avoid too much evening-time TV.

Keep your healthy habits on track while making active memories this season.

Next Article: Vegetables for Breakfast, April 2021 – Be Well Solutions

Written by BWS Lead Health Coach- Kelly Schlather, BS, ASCM – CEP