Geaux Health & Fitness Magazine Spring 2014 2 | Page 7

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No Kidding Around
For many parents, life is a blur of never-ending work and family
responsibilities. It seems that we are taking care of everyone else with
little time for ourselves. The to-do list probably includes the word
“exercise” but it’s a word that rarely gets crossed off. Why? Because as
parents, we claim that we simply can’t find time.
Exercise is vital to your health and wellbeing. It helps you manage
your weight, improve your mood, relieve stress and sleep better. In
other words, it’s too important to push to the back burner. So instead
of using kids as an excuse and trying to work around them, do your
workouts with them. You will be setting a good example and sending
the message that it’s important to be fit and healthy.
Start Early
There are many fitness programs specially designed for new parents.
Check with your physician, hospital, community recreation center or
fitness center. Some programs are available for parents with infants and
even incorporate the baby into the exercise routine. Other programs
are designed with baby on a mat or in his stroller “working out”
alongside Mom.
Floor Exercises
Some parents prefer to stay at home when they exercise. No problem.
Toddlers as young as age 2 can sit next to you on the living room floor
as you do stretches, yoga moves, leg lifts and stomach crunches. You
might even pop in a CD of children’s music to keep your child engaged
and entertained during the workout. Even better, get your groove on by
dancing to your favorite music with your child.
Play Time
It’s nice to sit outside and read a book or flip through a magazine while
your child plays in the back yard. But don’t waste an opportunity to
bond with your child and burn some calories at the same time. Games
like jump rope, hula hoop and hopscotch are a fun way to be active, and
if you’ve got enough energy, organize a family soccer or football game.
Set up a volleyball net or a basketball goal that’s always available so you
and your kids can enjoy spontaneous play any time.
Family Affair
It might not always be possible to schedule time at the gym, so make
exercise a family affair. Find an activity that everyone can do together.
Take daily bike rides or walk the dog together. Invest in a kiddie seat
for your bike or a jogging stroller to make exercise easier. When your
children are older, encourage them to walk, hike, jog or swim with you
on a regular basis.
Take a Class
From about the age of 12 on, your child can take classes with you.
Check with your local recreation center or university for fitness
programs and classes like yoga, martial arts, Pilates, step dancing or
spinning.
The important thing is to teach your kids that being active can be
fun. Make exercise enjoyable and they will be more likely to make it a
natural part of their lifestyle. GH&F
Spring 2014

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