(HealthNewsDigest.com) – Children and adults need daily physical activity to stay healthy. In fact, it’s recommended that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week— and more if you’re trying to lose weight — while kids should get at least 60 minutes of active play a day. Get your family moving with these tips:
- Set a good example: When you’re active, your family is likely to follow in your footsteps.
- Turn off the TV. Limit screen time to less than two hours a day.
- Start a healthy family tradition. Take a walk every evening after dinner, for instance, or hold a free-throw tournament on Saturday afternoons.
- Give active gifts. On birthdays, give gifts that encourage active play — such as jump ropes, tennis rackets or in-line skates.
- Play in the dirt. Maintain a flower or vegetable garden — and ask the entire family to help with its care.
- Take family game night outside. Play kickball, tag or capture the flag in the backyard.
- Log activity hours. Post an “activity chart” on the refrigerator — and offer small rewards for meeting goals.
- Put children in charge. Let the kids choose a Saturday afternoon activity. You may end up jumping in the leaves or swinging at the playground.
- Go for the gold. Sign up for a charity walk or run — and then train for it together.
- Start a chore chart. Assign active chores — such as raking leaves, gardening or vacuuming.
And don’t forget to play safe! Always use the proper safety equipment, such as bicycle helmets or soccer shin guards, when participating in sports.
