D1 Training: Benefits of Working Out as a Family

As we wrap up National Exercise with your Child Week, it has been nice to see families take to the turf together. Working out is a great way to challenge yourself and better your overall physical health, however sometimes it can be a lot to take on alone. There are a variety of benefits to working out with a group, especially when that group is your own family. Today we are going to talk about the benefits of training alongside your own.

First, the obvious benefit that comes with exercise is better health for everyone. Regular exhaustion from physical activity can decrease your risks for heart disease and improve your cardiovascular health. But working out isn’t only about bettering your health, it’s also about improving your habits. Many habits that children develop from a young age stick with them into their adult life. Regular physical training in adolescence can set your child up for lifelong healthy habits and discipline to stay consistent. And when a family works out together, they are being role models for each other.

Working out together can not only improve a child’s lifelong relationship with their own health, but it could also improve their lifelong relation with you. Working out as a family falls under the definition of quality time. Studies show that quality time between a parent and their child promotes the development of self-confidence and social skills. As we grow into adults, a concept of identity and belonging slowly forms. We find these concepts by engaging in different activities that we find interesting. If kids enjoy physical activity and have a positive network of family members supporting them, it will further develop this sense of belonging.

Working out can be any type of physical activity. Playing sports in the park, running around playing tag, even something as simple as hula-hooping or hopscotch in the driveway can be fun for a family to do together. Not every kid is going to want to run a mile or throw a ball. The idea is to just get outside and move. Anything is better than nothing. It may take some experimenting to see what kind of activity is enjoyed by the family. The key is to find something you all have fun doing and build a support network around it.

A parent’s goal is to prepare their child for the world. A great way to do this is to teach them to take care of themselves. Developing a routine based around exercise will serve the health of you, and your family, help strengthen familial bonds, and have fun together for years to come.