Its no secret that todays generation of kids is more sedentary than past generations. Many children today spend a huge chunk of time sitting in front of televisions, computers, and video games. Physical education programs are being cut in schools across the country as schools try to squeeze in more time for academics. How can a parent encourage their children to become more active?

I believe that parents are fitness role models for their children. If kids see their parents enjoying an active lifestyle, they are more likely to be active themselves. So if you retire to the couch after dinner and lie around all evening watching sitcoms, dont be surprised if you kids are couch potatoes too. Here are some suggestions of how you can get off the couch and encourage your family to live a more active lifestyle.

DO HOUSEHOLD CHORES TOGETHER

Instead of just asking your kids to clean their rooms, get them involved in more active household chores. Go outside and rake leaves together or shovel snow together in the winter. Younger kids can weed flower gardens while teenagers mow the lawn. If the whole family washes the car together, it will get done in no time. When you are finished with the outside chores, the whole family can celebrate by having a cookout in the backyard or going for a swim together.

MAKE EXERCISE A GAME

Kids dont need to go to a gym to get physically fit. They prefer activities that involve playing. Take your family to the park. Kids and adults will both enjoy slides, swings, and see-saws. You can take a kite on a windy day and take turns holding the string as you watch the kite glide across the sky.

GIVE KIDS MORE OPTIONS

Kids are more likely to go outside and play if they have more options. They wont get bored if you install a basketball hoop on the driveway, put a soccer net in the backyard or string a volleyball net across your pool. Invite other kids in the neighborhood over for a friendly game of basketball or soccer.

GO CAMPING TOGETHER

Taking a camping trip together is a great way to jump start your new active lifestyle together. Go for a long hike in the woods and take pictures of the wildlife. You could also take your mountain bikes along and ride on some trails. If your family likes the water, why not try a paddle boat or a canoe?

TAKE A TRIP THAT INVOLVES WALKING

Instead of sitting home on the weekend watching TV, go on an outing together that involves a lot of walking. A visit to the zoo is a great way to combine walking and fun. Kids wont even realize how much exercise they are getting. A water park is another great way to combine fun and exercise. Have you ever tried climbing all of those stairs to the top of the water slides? Its a lot of work.

I hope that you try some of these activities with your family. Once you get up and start moving, it will become a habit. Your children will reap the benefits of your familys new active lifestyle by becoming healthier and happier. Have fun!