ACTIVE LIVING
PHOTOGRAPHS BY WYNTER BYRD
Research shows active parents raise active children.
Have fun with
Family Fitness Easy ways to prioritize movement together
BY STEPHANIE GIBSON LEPORE The American Heart Association recommends that children six and older should get at least an hour of physical activity daily to maintain healthy brains and bodies. Besides reducing the risk of chronic health issues—diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, and obesity—down the road, exercise can also help kids do better in school, as well as burn off all the ants-in-their-pants energy leftover after the school day. One study at the University of British Columbia discovered that anaerobic exercise improves verbal memory, too, and additional research found that just five minutes post-moderate exercise, most people feel a mood boost. Creating movement memories your whole family will enjoy also means everyone 8 Bham Family September 2021
is more likely to stick with it. Making family activity a priority helps to strengthen the bond that is important for children’s social and emotional development. It also sets up kids for lifelong healthy habits. Leading by example is key—but don’t let the 60-minute recommendation intimidate you. Try incorporating activity into your regular routine, sneak in 10-minute increments throughout the day, make the most of weekends, and—most importantly—have fun together! Here are some ideas to try at home. Get outside. As temperatures start to (slowly) cool down around Birmingham, take advantage of our great outdoor spaces, and take a family CONTINUED ON PAGE 10
