Want to tempt your kids away from the TV or computer screen? Make exercise a family affair, involve children in team sports like playing catch or kicking around
a football, suggests a researcher.
"When people partner up to exercise with a friend or relative, they often find it easier and more enjoyable to get in the habit of breaking a sweat," said Pat Quinn, director of 'Play it Again Sports.' And, for those families who are looking to get fit without the commitment and expense of a gym membership, Quinn says that putting together a home gym can be both practical and fun.
For families interested in taking an affordable approach to family fitness, Quinn recommends these following tips:
Opt for cardio sports: Activities like basketball, soccer and touch football burn a lot of calories and do not require lots of equipment. These team sports are also a great way of getting all members of the family involved.
Vary your routine: Your family, especially younger children, will be less likely to get bored or injured if you incorporate different types of exercise into your routine. Try playing catch or kicking around a soccer ball one day and perhaps playing a team sport the next.
{{/usCountry}}Vary your routine: Your family, especially younger children, will be less likely to get bored or injured if you incorporate different types of exercise into your routine. Try playing catch or kicking around a soccer ball one day and perhaps playing a team sport the next.
{{/usCountry}}Buy used gear: Trading in sports equipment that you're not currently using is a great way to save money and stock up on items for your home gym, says a release of 'Play It Again Sports,' a sporting goods store.
If your children are no longer playing a particular sport or have grown out of certain equipment, opt to trade in the goods instead of throwing them away.