with your kids
GO FOR A SPEEDY STROLL
Blast away big-time calories by taking your kids for a power walk (or, better yet, a run). If you have toddlers, make sure they are securely strapped in a jogging stroller, if your kids are old enough, let them ride their bikes. If you have older kids, you can even hit an outdoor track and ask them to time you as you blast through your workout.
Interval workout: Instead of casually strolling through your neighborhood, crank up the intensity with an interval workout. This is a solid 50-minute cardio challenge!
Warm up with a leisure walk -- 5 minutes
Speed walk or jog at 80 percent of your maximum speed -- 5 minutes
Slow down and walk or jog to recover -- 3 minutes
Repeat the speed walk or jog and recovery five times (or as many times as you can)
Cool down with a leisure walk -- 5 minutes
CLIMB ON THE PLAYGROUND
Show your kids that mom can monkey around, too. Tone your arms by swinging across the monkey bars (while keeping your legs off the ground) 10 times in a row, or build up your leg muscles by repeatedly climbing any stairs or ladders in the playground. You can also show off how high you can fly on the swings – the leg-pumping action that gets you swinging will tone your abs. You can even challenge your brood to a pull-up contest – loser does the dishes!
3,2,1 LIFT OFF
Who needs free weights when you have a child? Little kids love being hoisted high in the air – not only does it bring on major giggles, but the act of lifting a light (less than 20 pounds) load over your head can build arm and back muscles, too.
Overhead lift: Lifting your child will get more challenging as he or she gains weight, meaning you can get stronger as he or she grows. Make sure you bend your knees each time you lift your kiddo to protect your back from injury.
1. Grab your little one and slowly lift him or her over your head.
2. Hold your kiddo up for 10 seconds (making faces is optional!).
3. Gently bring your kiddo down. Repeat 10 times in a row.
4. Rest, then repeat two more times.
For more ways to build in fun workouts into your day, check out these links:
Eco-friendly Fitness
