Keeping Fitness Fun!

Ask the question, "Wanna go for a walk?" to a dog and he'll knock you over getting out the door. Try posing the same question to your spouse. Do you get the same enthusiastic response? Aim to accumulate at least 30 minutes (adults) or 60 minutes (children) of moderate physical activity most days of the week, preferably daily, according to Canada's Physical Activity Guide. The activity should involve the large muscle groups (e.g., walking, running, cycling, and swimming). Making physical activity fun is the key to keep moving all year long.

It is time to rethink exercise. The "no pain, no gain" motto is out, moderation is in. It's time to ask yourself what's fun and what makes you smile. Remember when we used to have fun as kids. Playing ball, swimming, skating, running. We weren't thinking about how many calories we just burned by running through the sprinkler. You can get that feeling back!

Here are some ideas to put some fun into your fitness plan:

• Dancing
• Gardening
• Get the kids involved by finding activities the whole family can do - walk, bike, roller-blade, fly a kite, swim, play tennis or basketball.
• Play with your kids. How about a game of Twister? The kids may groan at first, but those moans will soon be replaced with laughter.
• How about a weekly family fun night? Try bowling, skating, hitting the gym together, taking a walk after dinner, going to the batting cage or playing putt-putt.
• Plan active vacations. Head to the mountains, beach, river or national parks and go exploring!
• If you already get 30 minutes daily, boost the time or take part in more vigorous activity for added health benefits.
• If you are sedentary, gradually become active.
• If you're time-pressed, you can accumulate activity in 10 minute spurts instead of at one long session.
• Be sure to check with a physician prior to changing or starting a new exercise routine.

Moving your body feels good when you're having fun. You'll also find that if you're enjoying yourself, you may have more energy and enthusiasm for other areas in your life.