Cleansing Starts Early: Working Out With Your Kids!
It’s great to get your kids involved in your summer exercise program. They are out of school, and have plenty of time on their hands. This makes a great opportunity to spend extra time with them exercising and playing together. It will be good for both of you.
Kids usually have a lot of energy, yet they don’t expend it as they should. It’s too easy to sit in an air conditioned house watching television or playing video games. It’s really important to limit those types of activities and encourage physical activity instead. Don’t let their protests get the best of you - even if they complain at first, once you get them outside, they’ll forget about it and have a good time.
Sometimes it’s hard to come up with good ideas on what to do with your children. Use some of these ideas to get you started:
- Tag. A game of tag is an activity that younger children really enjoy. Not only that, it provides a good workout for you and the kids. Chances are your kids can teach you dozens of variations on the game - play along and you’ll find the time passes really quickly without anyone becoming bored.
- Set up a softball field in your back yard. If possible, invite some friend’s or neighbor’s kids and their parents over to play. Use some flat objects to serve as bases and “play ball.”
- Basketball. This is a great sport that can be played with as little as two players, or as many as want to play. If you don’t have a hoop in the backyard, hop on your bikes and ride to the park.
- Swimming is always great. Most kids won’t need much encouragement to get into a lake or a pool. Remember to bring sunscreen.
- Obstacles courses are great. Kids love them; especially if they get to put it together. Get creative. Use a source of water for part of the course. Let the kids take it apart and remake it after you’ve finished the first round.
- Walk together or take a bike ride. This is especially good for older children. They’re usually willing to go on a walk and it will give you a chance to talk and catch up on what’s going on in their lives.
Remember to take the necessary safety precautions when kids are involved in the activities. Be sure they wear bicycle helmets, and the necessary knee and elbow pads. Bring along extra water and use sunscreen. Be alert to any signs of possible dehydration or heat exhaustion. Take breaks in the shade. Most of all, have a good time.
