​It’s tough to overstate the benefits of being physically active. Regular exercise lowers the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and more. Research suggests that it also helps fight and prevent depression by releasing endorphins (our brains’ stress-fighters). However, working out often feels like a chore, and getting yours kids to participate can be an even bigger challenge. Inspire a positive attitude toward staying active in your family and show them exercise doesn’t have to be a drag!

If you help your family inject some fun into exercise, it can become an enjoyable part of your everyday lives. Equip your family with the knowledge necessary to lead an active lifestyle while also having a good time with these fun workout ideas:

Take a scenic walk.

Going for a stroll is not only great exercise, but it also gives you and your family a chance to explore Arizona’s great outdoors. Our state has some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world. The Phoenix area in particular is home to many beautiful parks and peaks, from White Tank Mountain Regional Park to Papago Park. Simple walks around the neighborhood can easily be turned into scavenger hunts or games of “I-Spy” for some added fun. The many dog parks around the city allow for our four-legged friends to join in too. 

Dance!

Dancing is good for our hearts and muscles, and it helps with balance and coordination. Aside from any physical benefits a dance workout boasts, it’s a blast! Jamming out to great music is a great outlet for creativity and encourages your family to let loose and experience the freedom that comes with expressive movement. Throw on some of your family’s favorite tunes and get moving.

Make commercial breaks active.

Turning commercial breaks during our favorite TV shows into workout breaks is an easy way to squeeze some extra exercise time into the day. Whether it’s doing squats, push-ups, or simply speed-cleaning a part of your home, encourage your family to get up and get moving until the show comes back on.
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Check out a charity run.

Stay active while giving back! Raising kind and helpful children matters just as much as raising healthy ones. Running makes for a great outdoor workout, and doing so for a charitable cause is a fantastic way to teach kids to be caring, supportive members of their communities. Visit Run For Charity’s website for a list of charity runs near you.