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Making Family Fitness Fun






Life as a busy parent can make it feel impossible to find time for fitness, but what if I told you that you already have workout partners living under your roof? Exercising with your kids is not only a great way to fit movement into your day, but it’s also a chance to bond, have fun, and set the stage for healthy habits that can last a lifetime. Plus, if you’re short on equipment, your kids can make surprisingly effective (and adorable) weights!

Let’s dive into why you should consider working out with your kids and how you can make it happen.



Why Exercise with Your Kids?

  1. Build Stronger Bonds Sharing a workout with your kids is quality time well spent. Whether it’s a game of tag, a dance-off, or some playful bodyweight exercises, these moments create memories that strengthen your connection.

  2. Lead by Example Children learn by watching. When they see you making fitness a priority, they’ll understand the importance of staying active and healthy. It’s a gift that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.

  3. Double the Fun Exercising doesn’t have to be a chore. Kids bring energy, laughter, and creativity to any activity. What could be more fun than using a toddler as a “medicine ball” or racing your preschooler in the backyard?

  4. Improved Mood and Energy for Everyone: Exercise releases endorphins, and when the whole family is moving, everyone benefits from the boost in energy and mood. Plus, it’s a fun way to burn off your kids’ boundless energy

  5. Building Healthy Habits Early: By showing your kids that fitness can be fun, you’re setting the foundation for lifelong healthy habits.



How to Turn Your Kids into Workout “Equipment”

Kids make fantastic workout tools because they’re naturally squirmy and full of life, which can add an extra layer of challenge to your exercises. Here are a few ideas:

  • Squats: Hold your toddler in your arms or have your older child climb onto your back while you perform squats. It’s like weighted squats, but way more fun!

  • Push-ups: Have your child sit on your back while you perform push-ups. If they’re too heavy, let them count reps or cheer you on.

  • Plank Tickles: Hold a plank while your kids try to crawl under you or tickle you. They’ll stay entertained, and you’ll work your core.

  • Overhead Press: Lift your child (safely!) overhead and lower them back down for a shoulder workout that doubles as playtime.

  • Lunges: Carry your child or let them hang onto one leg while you perform walking lunges.



Sample Parent-and-Kid Workout

Here’s a quick 15-minute workout you can do with your kids that incorporates them as weights or workout partners:

  1. Warm-Up (3 minutes)

    • Jumping jacks together.

    • High knees while your kids try to tag you.

    • Arm circles while singing a favorite song.

  2. Strength Circuit (10 minutes)

    • Squats (30 seconds): Hold your child in your arms or have them sit on your back.

    • Push-ups (30 seconds): Let them sit on your back or crawl underneath you between reps.

    • Overhead Kid Press (30 seconds): Safely lift your child overhead.

    • Plank Tickles (30 seconds): Encourage them to balance on your back or climb under you.

    • Rest/Play (1 minute): Let them pick a quick silly movement like hopping or crawling.

  3. Repeat this circuit 2–3 times.

  4. Cool Down (2 minutes)

    • Stretch together. Have your child mimic your movements (think butterfly stretches or touching toes).



The Long-Term Benefits

By incorporating your kids into your fitness routine, you’re doing more than just staying active. You’re planting the seeds for a lifetime of health. Your children will grow up associating exercise with fun, family, and connection—not a chore or obligation.

Plus, these moments create lasting memories. Years from now, your kids will look back and remember the joy of racing dad in the park or being m



om’s “weight” during squats.



Final Thoughts

Exercising with your kids doesn’t just save time—it multiplies it. The time you invest in your health and in your relationship with them pays off in stronger bonds, healthier habits, and a happier family. So the next time you’re thinking about skipping a workout because of your busy schedule, grab your little ones and make it a family affair.

You’ll get stronger together—in every sense of the word.



Ready to start your fitness journey as a family? If you need help creating a personalized program that fits your busy life, check out my online coaching options. Let’s build a healthy, active lifestyle you can share with your kids!

 
 
 

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