Summer Family Fitness Tips!

Summer provides many great opportunities to be active and enjoy time together as a family. Making fitness a family priority paves the way for a lifetime of healthy, active living and makes it easier for all family members to incorporate exercise into their often busy schedules. Here are a few tips to help make the most of summer fitness in your family

Find Fun for All Ages

one of the biggest challenges in getting the whole family together for fitness is finding activities that involve family members of all ages. Swimming and bike riding are often good ideas because they can be modified in a number of ways to include everyone. Find a local event, such as a 5K fun run. Many such events include smaller races or other activities for younger kids, and some even allow strollers and dogs. Letting kids and teens invite friends their own age to join in family activities is also a good idea.

Get Outside



In many places, summer is a great time to be outside. Fresh, warm air and sunshine are excellent motivators for physical activity. Many outdoor activities also provide lots of flexibility and are therefore great opportunities for family fun and fitness. A simple day at the park, complete with a kickball game, a hike and some playground time can keep adults, teens and children active all day long.



Add Variety


Keeping things interesting by doing a variety of different activities will keep every member of the family motivated to stay active. Trying new activities as a family is a good way to strengthen relationships and learn from each other.



Dedicate Time


Summers tend get busy very easily, so scheduling time for fitness activities as a family is important. Making it a recurring event on certain days of the week or writing it down in the family calendar are good ways of keeping all family members accountable. Scheduling exercise as a family is also a good reminder to individual family members of the importance of prioritizing physical activity.






Take Turns Choosing Activities


Give every family member a role in family fitness time by taking turns selecting activities. This enhances accountability, assures that everyone is included and encourages variety and creativity.






Respect Hot Weather


Summer in many locations means hot weather. Physical activity in the heat requires plenty of hydration and vigilant observation for signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Both of these conditions are extremely dangerous. Make sure you always have water with you during outdoor exercise, and stop to rest when needed. Wear breathable clothing, and remember to use sunscreen.