While exercise is sometimes a welcome break from the responsibilities of parenting, you can’t always get away to squeeze in a workout. That’s ok, because exercising with your kids helps you set a good example, showing them how important physical activity is for a healthy body. Next time you’re stuck inside with excess energy, put on some music and try doing each of these exercises for 60 seconds in a circuit you repeat two to three times. You’ll squeeze in a complete workout in less than 30 minutes, and perhaps even wear out your kids!
- Squats:With your feet slightly wider than hip width, toes slightly turned out, bend your knees and push your hips back, lowering into a squat. Keep your chest lifted and your back straight, squeezing your glutes as you stand back up.
- Push-Ups: Assume a high plank position, with your hands firmly on the floor and your back flat. Bend your elbows to lower your body, keeping your body in a straight line, your arms close to the body, and your elbows facing backward. Push back up to starting position while exhaling.
- Mountain Climber:Again, in high plank position, bring your left foot forward directly under your chest, with your right leg extended. Keeping your hands on the ground, jump and switch legs so that the left leg is extended behind the body with the right knee forward. Repeat with a quick rhythm.
- Planks:Flat on the ground, bend your elbows and rest your weight on your forearms, making a 90-degree angle between your shoulder, elbow and hand on each side. Use your core muscles to form a straight line from head to toe and hold it.
- Wall Sits:Slowly slide your back down a wall until you’re in a sitting position, upper legs parallel to the ground, knees directly above your ankles and your back straight. Stay like that for 60 seconds.
- Star Jumps:Bend your knees and squat, knuckles brushing the ground, knees in line with your toes, and your bottom parallel to the floor. Jump as high as you can in one explosive movement, stretching out your arms and legs to make a star. End in the squatting position in which you started. Repeat with a quick rhythm.
- Inchworm:Stand up tall, legs straight, knees loose but not locked. Bend forward so your fingertips touch the floor and slowly walk your hands into a push-up position. Take tiny steps until your feet meet your hands.
- Burpees:Starting in a low squat position, hands on the floor, jump your feet back to a push-up position. Complete one push-up, immediately return to the squat position, leap up high with your arms overhead, then return to squat.
When you’re ready to get away from the kids and spend some time in a supportive fitness environment, we’re here waiting for you. At the Wellbridge Family of Athletic Clubs, we offer world-class training that keeps up-to-date with the latest in health and wellness. At our clubs, you’ll be greeted by our friendly team before you’re challenged and motivated by top-notch instructors in our fitness classes. You’ll make new friends because you belong here. Join today or contact us to learn more.