How to Make Fitness Fun for the Whole Family: Tips for Working Out Together
Eeeeeeek! You guys! My boyfriend's son asked for weights for Christmas! I am really trying to hide my enthusiasm from him (thus the outpouring that you now have to endure) because I don't want to spook him. He's 11 years old, if I act too excited I will ruin it and he will never let me workout with him.
Here's the thing, I genuinely enjoy working out. So when the people close to me take an interest, I get excited. My boyfriend does jiu jitsu, and while I think it's super cool, I'm not interested in getting beat up for exercise. Needless to say, I haven't had a family member to workout with in a while. Last weekend, I did a body weight workout in the living room and told the kids (all three of them) they could join me if they wanted to. Sammie who’s 13 started working out with me! Then a half hour later the other two joined and our workout shifted to dancing - all three kids out maneuvered me with the dance workout. It was a blast!
That being said... man do those kids have some bad squat form! I don't think my blog will be considered cool enough for them to read- but if you are reading this - here’s a free tip: PUT YOUR WEIGHT IN YOUR HEELS!
Key reminders when working out with loved ones:
Keep it Simple
Plan an easier workout that day so that you are able to talk and enjoy each other's company while you workout.
Hold your Tongue
Correct form once and then let them make their own choices. No one will want to workout with you if you keep telling them they are doing it wrong....
Show Don’t Tell
Model, invite but don't put pressure. I like to workout in the common areas of the house instead of in the basement so that the kids can see me working out. If they linger in the doorway, I will invite them to join me. I also always say what my plan is for a workout before I start and invite anyone who is home to join in.
Rinse & Repeat
Workouts, walks or jogs make great friend dates as well! I am in a place where going out for dinner and drinks every time I want to catch up with my friends can be expensive and exhausting. But I caught up with an old friend at the gym while doing squats last week and it was amazing!
Questions? Comments? Let me know!
