Childhood obesity---yikes. It's an epidemic.

Just a few facts:

• It has tripled over the last 30 years.
• In 2008, more than 1/3 of children were considered obese. Can you imagine how much it is now?
• Obesity is not just mean, it's dangerous. Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Cardiovascular Disease.
• Yikes...see this link for more facts: CDC

So, what's the answer? Stick your kids on a treadmill? No! Let's think of FUN ways to get the Whole Family up and moving--TOGETHER!

Outside FUN

• Hiking, Walking, and being outside--probably the most common forms of "exercise" you can think of.
• Swimming--what about heading to your local indoor pool. Family game time meets the water.
• Backyard: When was the last time you got a fierce game of kickball going? Got a basketball hoop? My son loves the game PIG..google it.
• Frisbee, Soccer, and Races in the back yard ..team girls vs boys.
• Walking to a park...now this applies if you live near one . Have your kids bike and mom/dad walk or jog along side. And when you get there, don't just sit on a bench. Push the swings. Have you tried Monkey Bars lately--they are HARD!
• Thought about running a race? So many 5 and 10Ks have a kids race before the adults get started. What an awesome way for the family to all achieve success.
• Make an obstacle course in the back yard. Have fun racing through and around it together.
• What are some fun adventures in your own town. B does such a good job of exploring with the kiddos. Old submarines, the SeaCoast Science Center, and lighthouses have already been found!

Inside Fun

• When was the last time you went bowling? Doesn't seem like exercise, but it gets you up and moving. Plus many bowling alleys have 99 cent games.
• Want to go the gym? Get in a quick workout while your kids play in the child care. Then grab your kids and head to the basketball court for kids vs parents.
• Roller Skating
• Ice Skating
• Zumba special events..you knew I was going to put that out there. Some studios will offer Mom and Me Zumba classes---dance the hour away!
• Speaking of dance..dance party in your home! Turn off the TV and turn ON the music. Party Rockers in the house.....

For Kids ONLY

• Need an aftercare program? Check out Zumbatomic (yes for both boys and girls).
• Gymnastics, Ballet, or any sport: Baseball, Swim, Football...you get the idea.
• Having a friend over? Sure electronics are fun, but send them outside for Vitamin D and a game.
• Send your kids outside. Little b will spend an hour playing fetch and chase with our dogs...it's the little things!

*************In order for your kid to love being FIT, they will need to see their parents/family doing the same. We are the EXAMPLE!

Question of the day: What are some ways you like to stay FIT with the FAM?

(Thank you Cheryl, for today's post. This is a topic near and dear to both of our hearts.)