Start Living a Healthy Family Lifestyle: Here’s How

Last updated on March 16th, 2023 at 01:47 am

Ready to start living a healthy family lifestyle? Let’s talk about how to take the first steps on the way to better health–for the entire family!

As many of us know, Americans aren’t getting enough exercise. The data is alarming when it comes to the health of both children and adults in the United States.

According to statistics, about 14.7 million children and adolescents are obese, and the adult obesity rate is a staggering 41.9%.

If you consider the low percentage of physical activity among young people, along with their increased screen time (seven and a half hours a day among children), the prediction is that obesity rates will continue to increase.

One problem is adults say they don’t have time for exercise, which in turn, prevents them from setting a good example for their children.

But, if you’re a parent, please don’t give up hope!

Yes, it can be a challenge, especially when you have little ones. And, your work schedule can also make it tough to squeeze in fitness.

Add to that convincing your kids (and maybe your spouse) to get on board with a healthy family lifestyle, and you have your work cut out for you, but, remember, the benefits far outweigh any difficulties in getting started.

But, once you do get everyone on the same page, focus on the family bonding experience your fitness journey can be. The entire gang will be doing something together while improving their health–and maybe even having some fun!

Keep reading for tips that will help you get started on the path to a healthy family lifestyle.

How to Get Started on Your Healthy Family Lifestyle

Create a Schedule

One of the main reasons people are unable to squeeze in a workout is because of their busy schedules. However, you can’t expect to start a fitness routine that naturally fits into your spare time.

You have to make an active and conscious effort to add exercise and fitness into your daily routine. (Write it down in your daily planner if necessary.) 

Start by creating a schedule that your family can follow, and make it a habit. Start with small workouts or activties (as little as 30 minutes a day), and then slowly build on your schedule as time goes by.

While it would be ideal, you don’t need to do something active every single day. Slowly work your new fitness habit into everyone’s schedule.

You’ll also want to get the entire family involved in planning the activities so they’ll look forward to them, particularly the kids.

Start with Functional Exercises

Set realistic goals. You shouldn’t expect your children to be super enthusiastic right off the bat.

Start with exercises that are fun and easy. One example is walking. This is one of the most beneficial yet easy-to-do exercises. Get your kids to join you for a walk each day or a few times each week.

You can then gradually increase the amount of time you spend walking each day. Walk around different neighborhoods or find new walking paths and trails to make the activity exciting.

After all, what kid doesn’t want to go on an explorer’s adventure?

Other functional exercises the family can do are jogging, swimming, and cycling. All of these activities are fun to do as a family.

Make it part of your routine, and before you know it, everyone will be reaping the benefits.

Encourage Sports

Finding a sport your kids enjoy is one of the best ways to promote a health family lifestyle. 

Keep kids motivated by allowing them to pick the sport they want to engage in. Join them, and they’ll be more encouraged to participate.

Additionally, make sure you have the necessary kid-friendly equipment for the sport they choose, such as helmets for biking or appropriate shoes for running. Having the right equipment ensures their safety and increases their enjoyment and performance in the activity.

Sports not only boost kids’ health and fitness levels, but are also a good way to develop their character.

Get Outside

The fresh outdoor air offers plenty of benefits to your physical and mental health. So, go ahead, encourage everyone in your family to go outside.

Hiking, cycling, walking, or just playing at the park or in the backyard are all great outdoor activities.

It’s important to instill in your children the value of spending time outdoors. Encourage them to explore your neighborhood and parks.

Limit Screen Time

One of the biggest hurdles in convincing kids to get moving is the amount of screen time that they’ve come to expect every day.

Try to set limits on the time that they spend in front of the TV or at computer or video game screen.

One way to help cut screen time is to encourage more time outdoors. Participation in a sport helps too.

Incorporate a Healthy Diet

A healthy family lifestyle also means eating a balanced and nutritious diet. Encourage your children to eat fruits and vegetables and look for recipes that make healthy foods more palatable for them.  

It takes proper planning to create meals that are not only healthy, but also something that your kids will enjoy. Luckily, there are loads of resources online when it comes to finding recipes for nutritious snacks and meals. 

You’ll also want to cut out fast food and junk food from your family’s diet as much as possible.  

We’re not saying that it’s easy, but the combination of a healthy diet and physical activity is crucial for your family’s health.

Support Each Other

As a family, you need to be each other’s motivators and support system.

Parents should always be their kids’ biggest cheerleaders. Show them that you support them and that you are proud of their achievements (no matter how big or small).

And, don’t worry about results just yet. Look at the effort being made!

Fitness experts say that getting started is the hardest part, and it’s true. So, support each other as you pursue your health goals. 

The Bottom Line

With all of the ideas we’ve discussed, you have the tools you need to pursue your healthy goals!

In fact, getting into the habit of exercising and maintaining your fitness routine might be easier nowadays with access to so many tools, including fitness trackers and apps. 

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your family, and get started on your health journey today!

You might also like…
5 Amazing Benefits of Spending Time With Nature
Practical Ways to Fit More Exercise Into Your Day
5 Steps to a Healthier You: Simple Changes to Make Right Now

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