Have you ever seen how crowded the gym is on January 2nd? Many of us decide that the new year is the perfect time for a new start, and we decide to get healthier with all the other people adding it to their resolution list. There is really no need to wait for the new year because simple choices like eating better and moving more can make an impact. We’re going to focus on moving more as a family, and there’s no better time to start on that than now.
Sometimes the hardest part of a new exercise routine is getting started. There are so many things to consider. Who is participating? What are their likes and dislikes? What time commitment are you able to make? Once you’ve made these considerations, it’s time to get going and consider our recommendations to get your family moving more, today!
1. Find a Role Model
Your first step in getting your family moving should be to find a role model. Most kids have someone special they look up to. Specifically in Houston, so many children look up to JJ Watt. To be fair, many adults also look up to a person like this who performs positively on and off the field. It doesn’t matter if your role model is a superstar athlete, a neighbor, or a movie star, it is always helpful to have someone to lead the way.
2. Set a Goal
Once you have a role model in mind, it’s the perfect time to set a goal. You know yourself and your family best. I work well with one goal at a time, but others work best when they work towards several goals at once. It’s important that you find what works for your group!
As you set your goals, think about what exactly that goal is and how to best keep your family on track. A goal doesn’t help you if you aren’t keeping it in mind. Whether you choose to put post it notes around, ask friends to keep you accountable, or set aside time on your calendar, make sure that your goal is SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound).
3. Establish a Routine
You’ve set your goals, and now it’s time to put them in action. There are many theories on how long it takes to create a new habit, but the important focus at this point in your process is to establish a routine. Knowing what activities will be completed and when makes it easier to stick to your routine. Kids especially thrive on routine and look forward to upcoming activities. Once you have built a new habit with your family, it will be enjoyable to watch it grow and develop into a tradition your family participates in together for years to come.
4. Encourage the Dream
Some days, it will be easy to get outside and get active with those you love. The weather will be perfect, the kids will be cheerful, the activity planned will be fun, but then there will be other days when it will be too hot outside, no one is feeling the fun, and the activity planned isn’t what you want to do. The important thing, once you’ve established the routine, is to encourage the dream by encouraging your kids, encouraging your spouse, and encouraging yourself. There is never a bad time to encourage those around you.
Being active is a lifestyle and a choice you have to make every day. It can be helpful to have a team holding you accountable, and it’s great when that team is your family. What are you waiting for? Get out there, spend the time with those you love, and get started creating those active memories today!