The 21st annual Family Health & Fitness Day USA, a national observance organized by the Health Information Resource Center (HIRC), is Saturday, September 30.
With the intent of promoting family involvement in physical activity, the day reflects one of the goals set by the U.S. Surgeon General’s Report on Physical Activity and Health.
This year, create your own family fun. Before deciding on which activities you’ll choose, let each member of the family make suggestions. Pick activities that are safe, fun and keep everyone moving. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Start the day right. Too often busy schedules mean we dash out the door without breakfast and forego family dinners. Resolve to spend a little family time together and improve your family’s nutrition by eating a healthy breakfast together every morning. Include plenty of fruit and whole grains in the meal and try adding a little healthy protein ““ all-natural peanut butter or a poached egg ““ to help stave off hunger pangs until lunch.
Take a hike. Fall means no bugs, low humidity and smaller crowds. Grab some GORP and check out one of these family-friendly hiking spots.
Have fun together. Shake up your routine by trying something new, like a family group fitness class. The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati offers several family fitness programs that can accommodate everyone’s skill level. Sign up for a fun and energetic Zumba ® class, or build strength, flexibility and self-confidence with family yoga.
Train for a race. Whether you want to run or walk, there are lots of races ““ many raising money for a worthy cause ““ throughout the fall and holidays. Some even offer a one-mile kids dash. Running in the USA lets you search for races near you.
St. Elizabeth sponsors many family-friendly events throughout the year. Check out the classes and events calendar for more information.
