7 Creative Ways to Keep Your Family Active This Fall
While being active is simple throughout the summer, it becomes more challenging once fall takes over. It might be time to reconsider your fall family activities if you find yourself turning on the TV more frequently for your kids now that the weather is getting cooler.
Here are some cool ideas to keep your family moving this Fall
Raking leaves
If you have a lot of trees in your yard, transform what may appear to be a large task into a family activity. Raking leaves in your yard is an amazing way to get some cardio exercise while also crossing something off your to-do list. Your children will enjoy the time spent together raking (and jumping into) pile and piles of leaves.
Visit a corn maze or a haunted house
Corn mazes are a fun way to go around with your family. Set aside some time to explore a local labyrinth. Your family will enjoy working together to find your way out of the labyrinth, and chasing your kids in and out of the maze will keep your feet moving and provide a fun opportunity for you to exercise together. Set out early in the day for smaller children, and work together to reach the finish line. Visiting a haunted home with a friend has similar advantages, but with less walking and other types of high-rate heartbeats. Many haunted attractions, particularly those located outside, offer less intense frights for smaller children.
Walks and bike rides
Take frequent walks or bike rides with your family to appreciate the beauty of fall in your community. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around your neighborhood to admire the colorful and festive decorations.
Pumpkin and apple picking
Pumpkin patches and apple orchards are glowing with autumn color. While gathering pumpkins and apples may not be the first things that come to mind when thinking of fitness, they are a brilliant way to include more activity into your fall. You'll get some workout whether you're lugging huge pumpkins or climbing apple trees. Bring the whole family and stock up on healthful autumn foods (or better yet, walk around to choose that pumpkin that will show off your family's porch during Halloween)
Fall 5K races
The fall season is ideal for running. Sign up for a themed 5K to involve the entire family. Halloween races frequently include costume contests or even zombie chases. November events allow families to burn off excess calories with a turkey trot on or near Thanksgiving. These themed races typically reward runners with entertaining prizes. Even families with young kids are welcome to join. Simply strap your child into a stroller and get ready to race.
Hiking in fall
Hiking is a great way to celebrate the change of the seasons. Bring the entire family to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage. If you have younger children, you might select a shorter hike and go at your own pace. Encourage your children to look at different plants or animals as they go. This is an excellent opportunity to get some exercise and participate in a nature treasure hunt.
Get active during TV time
It's unavoidable. Your favorite series will be on TV this fall, thanks to fall programming. Instead of becoming a couch potato, use that time to do some exercise. During a commercial break, challenge your family to see who can perform the most push-ups, sit-ups, or jumping jacks. TV time is also an excellent opportunity to hop on the treadmill and go for a quick walk while watching your favorite show.
Fall and cooler weather shouldn't mean the end of your active lifestyle with your family, it just looks different. Be sure to keep yourself and your children active while taking in the splendor of autumn.
