As the summer months start to roll back around, there’s something about the weather that makes people want to enjoy the outdoors and bask in the sun. As long as the sun isn’t scorching hot, it’s really nice to enjoy a little Vitamin D on a daily basis.
Having outdoor fun with your family is also a great way to bond, create fond memories and stay in shape. If you’d like to partake in a few summertime activities that will keep your family happy and healthy, there are a few options to consider.
1. Hiking
Depending on where you live, there’s probably a park or mountain trails nearby. Whether it’s a 15-minute ride or an hour’s drive away, there’s usually a local nature park that has a few good trails.
Pack backpacks with water, snacks and other necessities. Remember to carry a first-aid kit in case of an emergency.
2. Walking
After a long, hard day at work, it’s nice to come on and enjoy a meal with your family. Whether it’s home-cooked or ordered from the local pizzeria, a meal with the family is always priceless.
A great way to work off that meal is a walk with the family. There’s no need to get into the car and drive to the nearest trail or park.
Just simply put on the sneakers and step outside. If you’re dealing with small children, you can invite them to get into the stroller.
If you own a FitBit or another device that tracks your steps, enjoy the pleasure of knowing you’ll get more steps in before the day is out.
3. Swimming
Swimming is an incredibly dynamic way to get a lot of exercise. It’s a great activity for the entire family including your older members.
Swimming is such a low-impact sport and is extremely gentle to the joints. Most children love to wade, dog paddle and float in the water.
Many others love to race in the pool. Swimming is an excellent way to keep active and allow their bodies to remain toned as it works every muscle in the body.
It’s also an awesome form of cardio and can contribute to good heart health. Whether you have a backyard swim spa or a membership to the community pool, enjoy the water with your family.
4. Biking
Bike riding is a lot of fun for the whole family. Pile the bikes into the car and head over to a local park with bike trails.
Make sure that everyone wears helmets to protect their heads from injuries. If you have little ones, consider riding alongside them in their tricycles.
Since it’s important for them to get exercise too, be patient and let them ride at their pace. On other family rides, you might want to consider an attachable booster seat that allows them to hook on to your bicycle and enjoy the ride.
5. Rollerskating/Rollerblading
Some people really enjoy rollerskating while others are used to the sleekness of rollerblades. It doesn’t matter which option you like.
Just make sure you and your family get on some wheels and glide through the neighborhood. This exercise will allow you all to strengthen the muscles in your legs and it’s a great form of cardio.
There may be times when you can’t anticipate a fall. In this case, always wear knee pads and pads that fasten around your elbows.
When these two areas are padded, you’ll be able to break your fall a lot easier. Just like you’d use them for bike rides, consider getting good helmets for the whole family.
These five activities are lots of fun to do in the sunshine. While you soak up the Vitamin D, don’t be afraid to take a few pictures to capture these special moments.
Staying healthy and in shape doesn’t have to be boring. With these activities, your family will enjoy being a healthy and happy unit for years to come.
The job of a parent is never-ending. This seems to be especially true in the summer months.
Teens are out of school. They have more time to spend with friends, and they usually have plenty of activities to keep them busy. Being the parent of a teen is no easy task.
Teens are at an age where they have more independence, yet they’re still young enough to be blissfully unaware of dangers so many of us are all too familiar with. Get tips for keeping your teens safe this summer.
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