Families For Life | Getting fit is kids' play!

Balancing family and fitness can be challenging for parents, but we’re here to make it fun for you and your kids. When you include your children in your workout routine, exercise transforms into playtime, creating fun-filled moments and fostering a love for an active lifestyle. Here are some creative ways to make getting fit, kids’ play!

1. We like to move it, move it!

Kids (and kids at heart) love to dance, so why not turn up the music and show your moves off with a family dance-off? Dancing is a fantastic cardio workout for the whole family that also improves coordination and rhythm for your little ones. It’s an instant mood booster as well. So, whether it’s your favourite K-pop dance moves or just freestyling it, you’ll love to move it, move it!

2. Build your own obstacle course

Cushions, tables, chairs, and even hula hoops. Almost anything you can find at home can make an obstacle course. From jumping over cushions to crawling under tables and chairs, remove the obstacles to getting fit by making it fun while building strength, agility and coordination. Plus, a little family-friendly competition for the fastest time adds some excitement too. Just remember to move at a comfortable pace that suits everyone's ability!

Before starting, ensure all items are stable and there's plenty of clear space around each obstacle. Keep the course away from hard furniture edges and walls.

3. Imitate your favourite animals

Hop like a frog, crawl like a bear, sprint like a cheetah, or spread your arms and flap like an eagle. Imitating the actions of animals will bring your kids’ imagination (and your inner kid) to life. It’s not only highly entertaining to see and do, but it also works out different muscle groups while improving mobility.

4. Say yo to yoga!

No space at home? No problem! Getting fit is flexible with age-appropriate yoga poses, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. Try doing simple poses together, like the cat or downward dog. Moreover, yoga is known to improve concentration and mental clarity, among other emotional and physical health benefits, which is perfect for our stressful city lives.

5. Exercise some screen time

It may sound counterintuitive, but some screen time can really “workout” for you and your child! Platforms like YouTube offer a variety of fun and kid-friendly workout videos that you can play to make exercising entertaining. There is a ton of content out there, so you’ll never get bored!

6. An excuse to go outdoors

Exercise with your little ones can be a grand adventure. Go on hikes or nature walks to combine exercise with exploration. To make the walk more engaging, create a scavenger hunt list of items to find along the way. If you have a baby, carry them in a sling or push them in a stroller to get a better workout with the added load. Plus, a little fresh air for the family never hurts, either!

7. Your toddler IS the gym!

You’ve heard of Anytime Fitness, but have you tried fitness anywhere with your little ones? Who needs weights when you can carry your little one and strengthen your bond with him or her while growing stronger?

Try exercises like the weighted bear crawl, where you crawl around with your toddler on your back and keep him or her there for weighted push-ups, too. Carrying your toddler in your arms and doing squats and lunges are another great way to increase your muscles and the fun factor for your child!

The key is to fit family time into fitness time. By integrating these activities into your routine, you're promoting physical health and creating cherished family memories at the same time. Remember, the goal is to make it enjoyable, setting the foundation for a healthier future for your children.

Kickstart your parent-child fitness routine with these workout routines!