Summer is a great opportunity to spend time with your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews. Some of the most fun and enjoyable times to have with kids is while playing games with them. The following games are not just a great way to bond with the kids, it’s also a great way for all of you to get exercise!
Children are supposed to get at least 60 minutes of exercise everyday. Making sure they stay active helps increase their life expectancy and decreases their risk of cardiovascular disease. It also helps with controlling weight, increases coordination and self-esteem.
On top of that, exercising with your kids allows you to become a positive example of living an active lifestyle. So find your inner child and head out the door to play these fun games.
There are only two rules:
1. Every one plays safe.
2. Don’t take the games too seriously, just have fun and enjoy the time together!
Tag
This was one of my favorite games as a child. Tag is great for cardio and can also be used as a good warm-up. Spend at least 5-10 minutes but if everyone is having a good time, play for as long as you want!
Kangaroo Hop
This is probably best to do outside or where there is plenty of room without any risk of running into something. The Kangaroo Hop is a spin off of a plyometrics exercise. Start at a standing position and just like a kangaroo, hop forward as far as you can while also swinging your arms, hop 20-30 yards. To make this fun with the kids and family, tell them to jump like a kangaroo to the finish line.
Crab Crawl
With both your hands and feet on the ground and your stomach facing up, walk sideways, just like a crab! This exercise is great for toning your arms and back. To make this even more fun, have a race.
The Carousel
This exercise is also known as walking lunges. This is great for the hamstrings and gluts. Place your hands on your hips and bend your knees as you take a large step forward. Just like a horse on a carousel, keep head and back straight and only move your legs. Make sure your knee is not past your toes. Aim for at least 10-15 lunges.
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