Family Fitness

Having an accountability buddy makes sticking to our workout plans easier, a little more fun, and helps us to stay motivated. We can cheer each other on when one is down and out, and help push each of us to our limits to break through plateaus, try new exercises, or even beat our personal best!

So, take that concept and apply it to your family. Have you ever considered your family as being your source of motivation? Your workout partner? Your accountability buddy? Is it doable? Sure it is! Having people who look up to you as a fitness role model, who depend on you to be mindful of their best interests, who need your support -- are often right under the same roof as you are. Even though their needs and interests may be different from yours, creating a household that promotes healthier habits makes it easier for everyone to be more fit.

I was inspired this weekend by a family representing three generations of women. A grandmother, her daughter, and her granddaughter all participated as a relay team in a triathlon. It was great seeing them support and cheer each other on. Although, a triathlon may not be something that your family is interested in, you can still find activities that all members can be a part of, kind of like a team effort. Or, you can each do your own individual activities that spark your interest and suit your needs, for instance one person may take dance class while the other joins a recreational sports team.

Fitness magazine has an age-by-age family activity guide for you and your kids (age 0 to teen). Another option is searching for a local walking/hiking/biking/activity group on networking/meeting sites such as www.meetup.com. You can type in your zip code and activities that interest you and find other people in your area who participate in whatever it is you like to do. It's been said that the couple that plays together stays together, SELF magazine has a workout designed specifically for couples.

Again, even if you don't incorporate all of the moves from a particular workout, or join a specific activity group or gym, you can plant the bug in respective ears of your family members and see what might be fun for everyone. If you workout and make healthier food choices, your family is likely to do the same, and vice versa. If you have the support you need from your family, you're more likely to stick with your routine and achieve your goals.

Ask your family about their fitness goals, what healthier foods they like to eat, and get their ideas on strategies to make your household a place where becoming healthier doesn't feel like you're trying to achieve the impossible. Let your family be your inspiration and motivation!