This is a great time of year to get outside and enjoy the sun and have some family fun. Many people became sedentary during the covid19 shutdowns and this led to obesity, diabetes, weakness and mental health issues. These problems have been seen in adults and children. It is time to get out of the rut and into some healthy habits.
There are many things to do in the great outdoors to get into a healthy state of mind and to lose those extra pounds gained from being sedentary. Start with a morning routine of taking a run, walk or bike ride. Being outside gives you a feeling of freedom and a chance to get some vitamin D from the sun. There are many great places to go and some can be right outside of you front door. Look for a quiet street that does not have much traffic or a nature trail where you can take the family. Everyone will enjoy being out of the house and exercise makes everyone feel good.
Parks are great places to take the family for a day of fun in the sun. The playground equipment is great for learning hand-eye coordination and the swings are fun at any age. Kids love to play, swing, climb and be with other children. The park is a great place to meet friends and build new relationships. Parks are also great places to have lunch. Be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, and wear sunscreen.
On a field, you can play soccer, football, baseball and softball which are all are great forms of hand-eye and foot coordination. This very important part of a child’s development is also a great form of exercise and fun for the whole family. Volleyball, tennis and basketball are fun ways to exercise.
Swimming is something everyone can enjoy and many communities have swimming pools and many parks have public pools. Swimming is great exercise and everyone should know how to swim. If you don’t know how to swim this is the perfect time to take swimming lessons. Children can start taking lessons at one year old with a parent. Children can learn to hold their breath under water and roll over and float. They can also learn how to get to the side of the pool. Survival skills are very important, especially for children one to four years old.
Whatever you decide to do for exercise make getting outside for exercise a habit that you do every day. Try new activities, learn new skills and try something that you have never done before. The most important thing is to get your body moving and have fun doing it.
Love and best wishes,
Tracy