5 Ways a Father Can Engage their Children in Fitness

Posted by Dana R. Arevalo 

Presents a "guest" post written 

by Ken Meyers

Being a father is more than merely handing out discipline and enforcing the rules. You need to lead by example. Your children are likely going to pick up habits and interests based on what they perceive from you. If you want them to live healthy lives when it comes time for them to go out into the world on their own, you need to prepare them on how to stay fit and eat healthy.

1. Gaming Consoles - Many families have gaming consoles within the home. Consoles that are tailored for actual movement by the player can be greatly entertaining as well as helping yourself

and your children keep physically active. Some families will buy products such as the Wii or the Xbox with the Kinect sensor for no other reason than to get exercise while playing games. Don't be surprised if one of the games for the Xbox winds up knocking you down a peg. Some of these games are physically grueling and will push you to your physical limits.

2. Outdoor Sports - If your child is coming to the age of school sports, what better drill partner is there than Dad? Practicing with your child not only helps you create a bond with him or her, but it can help you keep in a decent physical condition. You don't have to push your child to partake in school sports, however. A fun game of soccer or basketball during your free time keeps the competitive juices flowing.

3. Landscaping - You'd be amazed at the response you would get from your children if you decided to do some landscaping with them that peaks their interest. If you don't have the money

to invest in a family swimming pool, there are a variety of projects you can do as a family to get the creative juices flowing and add physical activity. Build a waterfall in the front yard, put together a brick fire-pit for barbecues  or construct a small stream with a foot bridge in the middle of the yard filled with goldfish.

4. Competition - Family leagues can be found in a variety of venues from bowling to golf. It doesn't matter if your family is any good, but it's getting out of the house and staying physical.Golf competitions could give yourself and your children a reason to hit a bucket of balls three times a week before the big tournament. Softball can be used to hold practice sessions between each game. It's all about staying mobile.

5. Eating Properly - Fitness isn't only about keeping yourself active. Eating the right foods can help keep your bodies mobile and trim. If one of your food staples consists of cupcakes, there is a good chance your children will use it as well.

Fitness starts with your own example of how to eat healthier. You don't have to go on a diet, but substitute some of those "bad" foods with something that can promote a healthier you. Although children won't admit it, many of their mannerisms and habits will come from the father figure in their lives. If you spend your time lounging on the couch and not putting effort into being alive, there is a good chance they won't either. Become active yourself and show your children that there is more to life than the "Guide" button on the television remote.

About the Author:Ken Myers is an expert advisor on in-home care & related family safety issues to many websites and groups.  He is a regular contributor to www.gonannies.com. You can get in touch with him at kmyers.ceo@gmail.com.