Here are our top 10 ideas to get your family off the couch and outdoors for some healthy fun. Mix it up to keep everyone interested, and don’t be afraid to try new things!
1. Paintball
Want to be the mom or dad of the year? Make plans to visit your local paintball fields for what will undoubtedly be hours of fun. Play on teams or against one another, whichever fits your family dynamic! Girls vs. boys? Parents vs. kids? That’s sure to get everyone excited. Paintball isn’t for everyone, as there’s a chance for injury, and can sometimes be a pretty intensive workout. Still, it’s an affordable and wildly fun way to get your family out of the house and working on one goal together.
2. Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is an incredible skill and sport which trains the body and mind to become more tone and disciplined. The sense of achievement after climbing a rock wall, whether it be real or one at your local gym, can’t be beaten. Before you begin rock climbing, make sure you have the proper equipment, including harnesses and helmets. Safety should be a top priority, so choose a rock face with a difficulty equal to your family’s ability.
3. Canoeing
Canoeing is kayaking’s low-intensity cousin. Unlike a kayak, which is made for speed and sharp turns, canoes are made to be slowly meandered down lazy streams. Don’t let that fool you, though, canoeing can burn some serious calories. The best part about canoeing is that it requires teamwork in order to get the boat moving in the right direction. You’ll only get to your destination by working together, which is always a good life lesson to share with your family.
4. Hiking
There are over 6,500 state parks and 58 national parks in the United States. Many of them are very family-friendly, with well-marked trails of varying difficulties. Find one near your home and make plans to spend the day out exploring nature with the family. Our day-to-day lives can be pretty hectic, but one of the many benefits of hiking is reducing stress and anxiety. If your family needs to unplug and reconnect with nature, a hike is the perfect remedy.
5. Bike Riding
Cycling is an invigorating way to enjoy time with the family. Unlike hiking or walking, which may be too slow-paced for younger children, cycling is fast-paced excitement. It’s also a healthful cardio workout that can burn over 200 calories an hour for the average person. The best part about cycling is discovering your world, so change your trails often to add variety and extra challenge for your family. We especially like cycling as a family activity because it’s an eco-friendly activity that can be done almost anywhere.
6. Swimming
It’s not always easy for those in land-locked areas to get to the beach, but that’s not your only option for fun in the sun. Going to a nearby river or lake can be just as fun, including the adventure to get there. Swimming outdoors isn’t essential, but it does present added benefits. For example, we all know moderate time in the sun is good for a boost of vitamin D. The great outdoors also have a tendency to lower stress and increase creativity, giving your family a chance to unplug and relax.
7. Backyard Garden
Farm-to-table eating is all the rage today, so why not start in your own backyard. Gardens are an ideal outdoor family activity, as gardens take almost daily supervision to keep out pests, weeds, and to check on progress. Children love watching their plants grow from seed to fruit, and you’ll enjoy having some healthy options on the dinner table. Pulling weeds and planting flowers can burn anywhere from 200-400 calories an hour. It’s also a perfect excuse to get the kids out back and enjoying some fresh air.
8. Dog Parks
Your family pet should be considered, too! Taking your pooch to the dog park will be a great way to exercise both children and pets. If you’re lucky, by the time you get home, everyone will be ready for a nap! Dog parks are full of excitement and are sure to have your children running around and playing for hours. Always be safe, making sure your children ask before touching any strange dogs. The best part about dog parks is that they usually require documentation that all the dogs are treated and healthy.
9. Gold Panning
You’ve never seen a child’s eyes light up like they do the first time they strike gold. Believe it or not, you can pan for gold in almost any stream or river. It won’t be a ton of gold, but after a little while of playing in the water, children can find a small smattering of gold flakes for their effort. Take the family to enjoy the great outdoors, and after a trek to the river, you can reward them with some fun panning! It’s a win-win. We hope you found some good tips in this article. Now it’s time to get outside with your family for some healthy fun! Featured photo credit: Chewy via unsplash.com
