New to Bounty?
Finding enough time to exercise can be tricky for a parent. Ensuring your children are active enough can sometimes takes priority. But what if the answer was exercising with your kids?
New research conducted by Fitbit found that parents aren't exercising with their kids regularly enough. While all parents believe exercising together is key to kids developing healthy habits, a lack of time and house hold chores are common barriers taking over.
We spoke to Dr Preeya Alexander aka The Wholesome Doctor about the findings and asked her how we can go about getting a little more active as a family. And her vibe on the matter … it's easier than you might think!
"I think lots of parents get daunted by the notion of building in physical activity into day-to-day family life and as a busy parent I can understand this," says Dr Preeya.
"But, this can be simple. A walk to the park, playing a game of chasey, dancing to music, walking/scooting or cycling to the park or café instead of driving – are all little ways you can build in some physical activity for the entire family."
The research conducted by Fitbit suggests that while parents are often active (67 percent stating they exercise at least 2-3 times a week), they don't often involve their children when exercising (with only 25 percent of parents exercising with their children once a week).
This suggests that whilst parents are very aware of the benefits of exercise and fitting it into a busy schedule, we as parents might be struggling with how we can keep the whole family active so that everyone gets in some necessary physical activity.
READ NEXT: 10 simple ways to exercise when busy
Dr Preeya Alexander aka The Wholesome Doctor says not to underestimate how much everyday incidental activity with your kids can add up.
"On a personal level, it's taken me some time as a parent to develop strategies to ensure that not only I get the exercise that I need (with an elevated heart rate and sweating) but that my toddler does too," says Dr Preeya. "You also need to make sure this doesn't feel too 'structured' as kids usually don't respond to that.
"The study also suggests that watching TV or a movie would be a likely activity for school holidays or free-time. Whilst some sedentary activity is fine (trust me we all need a break!) it's about being aware of how much time is spent sitting vs active."
We need to try and limit sedentary time and increase the time spent moving/shaking/dancing/playing – it all counts as exercise!
"Firstly, please know that as a working mother I do not find this stuff easy but here are some tips I implement myself to keep my family active and tips I often share with my patients ..
WATCH: Meghan Markle's favourite exercises. Continues after video …
"The benefits of keeping kids active are abundant," says Dr Preeya.
"You set up healthy habits for later life, reduce the risk of obesity and obesity-related disease and promote a range of mental health benefits. Not only does the child benefit – but the parent does too. It's a win win!"