Family Fun Exercises
Family Fitness. A List of Fun Exercises to Do with Your Kids Over Christmas
In Queensland, Christmas comes with blazing summer heat, making it essential to find creative and enjoyable ways to stay active while keeping cool. Here are some fun, family-friendly exercises you can do with your kids during the festive season, designed to help you stay fit and beat the heat.
1. Beach Games and Activities
- Engage in fun beach activities like beach volleyball, frisbee, or a friendly game of beach cricket. These games not only provide excellent exercise but also foster teamwork and coordination. For a cooler activity, consider a beachside scavenger hunt, where kids can search for shells, sea glass, or interesting rocks. If the heat is intense, play games in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are milder, and always stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
2. Pool Play and Water Exercises
- Take advantage of Queensland’s warm climate by spending time in the pool. Pool games such as water tag, relay races, or diving for rings can be exciting and great for cardiovascular fitness. Older kids can enjoy swimming laps or practicing strokes, while younger children can engage in playful activities like floating races or poolside treasure hunts. If you’re looking for a low-impact workout, consider water aerobics or aqua jogging, which provide resistance and exercise without putting stress on the joints. Pool exercises are also an excellent way to stay cool and refreshed.
3. Backyard Adventures
- Transform your backyard into an adventure playground. Set up a mini obstacle course using garden furniture, hula hoops, and inflatable pools. Challenges like crawling under tables, jumping over cones, and balancing on beams can be thrilling and beneficial for developing agility and strength. For a creative twist, have a family relay race or a treasure hunt with clues hidden around the yard. These activities are ideal for avoiding the heat while keeping everyone active and entertained.
4. Outdoor Fitness Classes
- Consider joining or creating a family fitness class in a local park or shaded area. Activities like family yoga, tai chi, or stretching can be adapted to suit all ages and fitness levels. Many parks offer shaded picnic areas or pavilions where you can set up for a refreshing workout session. Engage in gentle exercises that improve flexibility and balance, making the most of cooler parts of the day. This can be a relaxing way to stay fit while enjoying the summer weather.
5. Cycling and Scooter Rides
- Cycling or riding scooters is a fantastic way for the whole family to stay active while exploring your neighbourhood or local parks. Ensure you plan your rides during the cooler times of day, such as early mornings or late afternoons, to avoid the peak heat. Choose routes with plenty of shade or water stops, and encourage kids to take breaks and drink water regularly. Cycling and scootering are not only great for cardiovascular health but also provide an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors together.
Take home message
By incorporating these fun exercises into your Christmas celebrations, you can ensure that your family stays fit and happy during the festive season! Whether you’re playing beach games, enjoying pool activities, or exploring your backyard, the key is to make fitness fun and adaptable to the warm weather. Embrace the season with these creative activities and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
At Pivotal Motion Physiotherapy, our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life. If you’re looking for a tailored exercise program or guidance during the holiday season, get touch with Pivotal Motion’s Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiologist team today. Our team will be able to discuss with you in more depth on how we can help you. Book online or call us on 3352 5116.
