For most families, life turns even topsy-turvier than usual during November and December. We squeeze extra entertaining, baking, shopping, errands, concerts, and parties into our already busy schedules, and that means fitness takes a back seat. Combine that with all the tempting treats: Ho-ho-uh oh! It’s essential to find ways to fit in some family fitness, and we promise there are ways to do it that won’t turn you into a Grinch.

Setting up a simple, fun family fitness challenge is the perfect way to get everyone in the household motivated to get healthy.
Hold a family meeting to kick off your family fitness challenge. Solicit everyone’s ideas — little kids too! — for a goal to work toward. You might want to target healthy eating, increased physical activity, new strength goals, or less TV time/more family time.

Create Family Holiday Fitness Traditions

Treasured rituals are an important part of the Christmas season for most families. Add or adapt yours to include fitness! Consider:

• An all-ages Christmas carol singing party, complete with active party games like pin the tail on the donkey or musical bumps
• Walking, instead of driving, to view christmas lights and decorations
• A kids’ talent show during family get-togethers
• Cutting down your own Christmas tree
• A family skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or walking trip during school holidays

Good Luck, be inventive and most of all have fun as a FIT FAMILY!