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Expert Q&A

	By Kelli Calabrese Exercise Physiologist

What sort of things can we do to stay active as a family?

It's important for parents to take as active a roll in children's physical educations as they do in their academic educations. Physical play is natural to children and is not something that necessarily needs to be taught, but children need to be provided with the tools and a safe environment.

Community events such as walk-a-thons, bike-a-thons or even triathlons are becoming more and more popular with families. Team events are perfect. For example, one child starts out mountain biking, then Dad and a second child row across a lake followed by Mom running to the finish line. Remember to focus on working as a team and having fun together as a family.

These events are often organized to support a good cause, so they're a good opportunity for children to learn the value of fundraising and helping others. Let children pick a cause that is important to them, and make sure the activity matches their physical abilities. Spend six to 12 weeks prior to the event "in training" to prepare physically while building team skills as a family.

Many parks and schools are set up with physical activity courses that have various exercise stations spread out across fields or trails. These courses are appropriate for all ages and levels of fitness. You can walk, jog, skip or race bikes between stations. Set personal goals each week, such as trying to beat last week's time, spotting animals along the route or finding "treasures" along the way.

Take tennis instruction as a family or enroll in a dance class with your child. Classes and lessons help your entire family become better rounded in many areas of fitness, and you may ultimately find one you all enjoy and want to advance in. Short-term lessons also help family members learn to respect each other's personal preferences and keep an open mind to new experiences.

Plan a dynamic summer vacation that includes physical activities for everyone: a walking tour, playing volleyball, kayaking, white water rafting, snorkeling, skiing or snow boarding, hiking a trail or climbing a summit. If an extravagant summer vacation isn't on your to-do list this year, the "vacation" can be a simple day trip in your own neighborhood.

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