Gifting “Family Fitness” Experiences
Whenever pressed to make a gift wish list by loved ones, “experiences” tend to top my list over materialistic presents. I've done swim lessons with my daughter, a gift certificate to a restaurant I want to try, or a museum membership. These tend to create more excitement and anticipation around their use, as well as more fond memories than say another winter coat.
Envision your holiday season and crafting your wish lists this year. Imagine if there is a way that you would love to be active with your family. I often hear from clients that they struggle with fitting in fitness after work because they value spending time with the family. Why not kill two birds with one stone and get active together? Start the convo at home. Ask your family members what their best scenario for family workouts would be, and take turn honoring each other’s wishes. It will keep things fun and fresh and you’ll likely expose yourself to benefits of varied workouts.
Put these ways to have fun while moving as a family on your own holiday wish list.
1) Run or walk in a road race in your town
I have fond memories of Thanksgiving Turkey Trots with the family, as well as Labor
Day tradition of running my hometown’s 5k. There are plenty of these for Christmas time as well. Most races will allow for walkers, too, if your family members do not (all) run.
2) Better yet, do a destination race
This would be a fun way to combine a race with a destination that you’d love to travel to with the family. The women in my family once did a women’s half marathon in NYC. Trust me when I say you'll build plenty of memories with this combo!
3) Hoop it up
Get or gift a basketball hoop. A game of Driveway PIG or KnockOut won’t feel like a workout but will burn calories while you’re having fun with the kids.
4) Get the class pass
Ask for class passes to your favorite workout studio or one that you’ve been wanting to try. I so appreciated receiving a class bundle to my yoga studio last birthday! Bonus points if you can get a spouse or children to come with you (or maybe you’d prefer some alone time, which is always good, too).
5) Take a hike.
Bundle up and hit the trails for a family hike one weekend. Use the middle of the day when it is warmest and sunniest; getting the blood flowing, heart rate up, and experiencing nature and unplugging from technology will do everyone a world of good.
6) Hit the Links!
A round of golf with a loved one (skip the cart for extra movement!).
============================================================= We are also here to help! If you’re ready for support or want more information on getting your family involved with holiday family fitness, drop us an email or give us a call at 877-293-9355 ext. 0! – KEELEY MEZZANCELLO. MS, RD CSCSHealth Advisor | Email Keeley
