Friday, 27th September 2024
In today’s busy world of long working hours, jam-packed schedules, trying to stay active, and having even a glimpse of a social life, finding time for family activities can be challenging. So what if you could keep the kids AND yourself active, pull them away from their screens, and spend quality family time together?
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We all know that exercise increases physical health which has an array of benefits for all ages. But arguably more important than that, our bodies when moving release hormones that reduce stress and anxiety while promoting happiness and relaxation. For children, physical activity can help reduce hyperactivity, improve focus, and foster better sleep. For parents, it provides a much-needed break from the pressures of work and life. Exercising together means that these positive mental breaks can all happen simultaneously, making for a more peaceful family environment.
Whether it's walking, playing, cycling, or exploring, exercise and sporting activities require teamwork and communication, fostering a sense of togetherness. Engaging in fitness challenges together, or even just taking a stroll, provides the chance to talk, laugh, and connect on a deeper level, away from screens and daily distractions.
Parents are role models for their kids, meaning it is their responsibility to set a good example. When our children observe us keeping active (and enjoying it!), they are more likely to develop the same appreciation for fitness. Therefore, engaging in family exercise teaches our kids that health and well-being are priorities that can be achieved through physical activity. And maybe, just maybe, they will carry these positive habits right through to a long and healthy adulthood.
We all know how challenging it can be to balance family time with work, after-school activities, staying fit, and maintaining a social life. Exercising together as a family is a great way to keep both yourself and the kids healthy, without the stress of trying to squeeze in a solo workout between their packed schedules (which, let’s be honest, rarely goes as planned). Activities like our Family Fit Multi-Sports or Family Badminton are perfect because they’re designed for families just like yours. You can socialise with other parents while getting active, and the kids can stay entertained with their peers, making it a fun and energising experience for everyone. Or if you'd prefer a quieter, more 1-1 training time with your son or daughter, you can bring them along to a gym session at any of our leisure centres as long as you have pre-booked a junior/teen slot for them.
Many family activities require problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. These activities help build resilience and cooperation, teaching children valuable life skills in a fun, low-pressure environment. Whether you're working together to reach the top of a hill or strategizing during a game of table tennis, these experiences bring a sense of unity and achievement.
With Beat The Street coming to Pendle now is the perfect time to get moving with your loved ones and explore ways to make fitness fun. If you haven't heard about it, Beat the Street transforms towns into giant outdoor games. Players can walk, cycle, or scoot around their area, earning points by tapping smart cards on “Beat Boxes” placed around the community. It’s an engaging way for families to get active, explore their surroundings, and compete with others for rewards. Sign up here to Beat The Street and start exploring your local area, you might be surprised at what you find! And if you’d prefer to break up your walks with some indoor fitness fun, check out some of the ways you can stay active across Pendle Leisure Trust facilities.