Fun Fitness for the Entire Family

“I’m bored!’

“There’s nothing to do!”

How many times have we heard this from our kids? If you grew up before the age of video games, your first response might be, “Go outside!” On second thought, this might be a good opportunity to spend some time with your kids and get everyone moving.

There are lots of outdoor activities that are perfect when you want to enjoy some sunshine and fresh air. You can go for a walk around the neighborhood, take a bike ride or play hopscotch on the sidewalk. But if you want to get everyone’s heart pumping, try one of these fun ideas the next time your kids can't find something to do.

Fun with Balloons
Kids of all ages love balloons. Put balloons and kids together and let the magic begin. Plus, the combo offers a million possibilities to keep everyone moving. Here are a few:

• See who can keep their balloon in the air the longest
• Create a balloon “tail” and try to pop it by sitting on it (hands free)
• Juggle balloons
• Play volleyball with a balloon
• Race each other while keeping a balloon in the air

Animal Run
Everyone remembers "red light, green light" and all the giggles that ensue when someone gets caught running the red light, right? Give the classic game an animal spin. Ask your kids to name three different animals: one slow, one medium and one fast. For example, a turtle, a donkey and a cheetah fit the bill. As everyone runs, call out a different animal and mimic that animal’s speed.

Backyard Obstacle Course
Set up an obstacle course in your back yard. This might sound like a lot of work, but it doesn’t have to be. Let each member of your family set up a station on the course. Here are some you can include:

• A hopscotch station
• Zigzag course around cones or other objects
• A balance station where everyone must balance 30 seconds on each leg
• A basketball dribbling station

Add to the fun by making everyone skip between each station. Wrap up the obstacle course with a sprint across the yard.

Dragon’s Tail
Everyone has their own version of tag, but here’s a fun variation to try with the kiddos. Stuff a colored scarf or bandana in the waist of everyone’s shorts. Players try to steal each other’s “tail” (scarf). When a tail is caught, the dragon must do something the person who nabbed the tail asks. For example, five jumping jacks, hop on one foot, call out a favorite fruit or vegetable, etc. Afterward, the tail is returned and play continues. In this way, no one is “out” and left standing around doing nothing while the rest of the dragons are running.

Not all family activities have to be structured and full of rules. What fun family activities keep you and your kids active?

Originally published 6/7/2017; Revised 2021, 2023