My Gym: Take It Outside

If you need some children's fitness ideas, get ready to take it outside! Outside is the perfect place to target children's fitness issues and get everyone in shape. Take the kids (and yourself) outside and enjoy some fresh air and exercise.

Yes, you may encounter a little resistance at first, especially if the family is used to video games, movies and reruns of their favorite shows. Children's fitness can be enjoyable if approached in a fun and positive way.

Take kids to the park and play games or fly kites. Walk on the paths or take a hike along the trails. Ride your bikes to and from the park if it's close enough and pack a healthy picnic lunch or supper.

Go to the zoo and spend a few hours walking through the exhibits. Children's fitness activities need not be boring and being outside at the zoo is healthy and fun.

Children's fitness activities for older children can include cross-country skiing, biking and snow shoeing. These fitness activities can be shared with friends as well as family members. Encourage kids to take part in these healthy activities and get involved yourself.

Plan children's fitness activities for each member of the family. Not everyone will enjoy the same thing but it's a good way to spend time together and learn about cooperation and getting along.

You can take part in children's fitness activities even if the weather is not perfect. Take a walk in the rain or after the first snowfall of the year. When it's really hot you can play outside early in the day or take a trip to the local pool.

Go outside and play with your kids, encourage children's fitness!