Outdoor Activities for the Entire Family
- Category: Family Medicine
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Keeping Your Family Healthy & Happy
There are countless benefits to staying active, and even more benefits when the whole family is active together. Outdoor activity not only supports a healthy body and lifestyle but also fosters quality bonding time between loved ones.
The Benefits of Regular Activity
Regular physical movement helps to reduce the risks of childhood obesity and can help people of any age maintain a healthy body weight, keep joints fluid and ward off many chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Additionally, it also can help prevent emotional conditions such as depression and anxiety.
Exercise Recommendations
The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommends that adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week (or a combination of both). Additionally, HHS recommends that children and adolescents should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day.
Taking in the Outdoors
Being outdoors has been linked with many health benefits, including reducing stress, improving mental well-being and increasing physical activity levels. So why not get in some movement and enjoy being outdoors?
Activities for Adults and Kids Alike
Regular physical activity not only supports a healthy body and lifestyle but also it can be a lot of fun! Establishing exercise habits with your children at a young age can help set them up for long, healthy life — and protects your health and wellness, as well.
If you're looking for ways to get the family moving, here are a few fun outdoor activities everyone can enjoy:
- Take a nature hike and explore your surroundings
- Visit a nearby park and play some classic games such as frisbee or tag
- Ride bikes together or go for a group jog/run
- Have a friendly competition with a game of basketball, tennis or football
- Venture through your local community by walking or riding your bike
Get creative, and come up with your own outdoor activities as well! The possibilities are endless when it comes to spending time together and staying active as a family.
