Grandparents are in town, a flurry of kids is underfoot, and you're wondering where you'll find time for a quick winter workout. Here's a thought: Why not get everyone involved with these simple workouts?
Walking: It's suitable for young or old, with a pace that's sedate or speedy. Try these ideas to get the gang on their feet:
- Do laps at the mall. If you shop, cart your own packages and then unload them in the car after every store.
- Disguise the walk as something else. Toss a ball as you stroll, fling a Frisbee, or take the dog to the park.
- Instead of driving, walk over to your favorite local restaurant.
- Take part in a holiday fund-raiser, like the Arthritis Foundation's Jingle Bell Run/Walk
- When everyone's on the couch chatting, or watching TV -- why not sneak in a little calorie burn, too?
- Do crunches: Sit on the edge of the couch, hands gripping the edge at your side, then bend knees, lifting them toward your chest.
- Leg lifts: Use the same position as above, but lift your legs straight up, instead of bending them.
- Trim those triceps by doing dips off the couch edge.
- Build your biceps: Grab a bottle of water or a can of soda and do curls.
