4 Ways to Get Your Kids Off the Couch

When you invite your partner, your parents, or your kids to share a delicious, healthy meal with you or engage in a fun activity together, everybody benefits.

Being active with your family is a great way to bond and boost your health. Improve your families health and get moving with these ideas:

Shoot for 60

Remember that for good health, kids should ideally get at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. All kinds of activities count. Encourage your kids to get moving by walking fast, running, dancing, jumping rope, riding bikes, skating, swimming, playing basketball and soccer-even climbing stairs works.

Plan Active Family Outings

On weekends, go for a hike or bike ride together at any of the local parks or walking paths. Take your family to a place with lots of outdoor activities for your next vacation.

Take a Walk

Start a tradition by taking a walk together after a meal. If you normally drive your kids to school or to a friend's house, try walking with them instead (assuming your destination isn't too far away).

Create a Space for Activity

Set aside one room in the house that is a comfortable, safe place where your kids can rock out and be active. Fill it with balls, hula hoops, and other active games and puzzles-don't be embarrassed to join in the fun.

Set Limits

Encourage your kids to take part in activities that involve moving, not sitting. Set limits on how much time they spend watching TV, playing video games, and surfing the Internet. And make sure you observe these limits too.

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Rockford Fitness Examiner Amanda Marshall is a passionate, active mom from Illinois.

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