How to Change a Family's Exercise Routine

Making exercise a family affair can be tough enough, but trying to change things up once your family has established a routine is an entirely different feat. All it takes is a little hard work and a bit of persistence to make creating the new way your family works out an easy transition.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Change slowly. Taking changes in a normal routine one step at a time is a more ideal way to change your family's fitness plan. Most people are prone to be a little hesitant to change--especially when they already have a schedule that they've become accustomed to.
2. Motivate your crew by creating fun charts to keep track of how many miles you and your children have ridden, walked or ran. Showing the families progress after making goals can help keep you and children anxious for the next milestone that you may not have achieved in your first family exercise routine.
3. Celebrate exercise milestones, big and small. If your family wasn't doing anything active before, just getting off the couch and going for a walk everyday for a week is something to celebrate. One thing to remember is to stay away from food rewards. It's important not to reverse all of the hard work you and your family have been putting into your new plan of attack.
4. Plan for a good time that includes fitness and exercise. If your current plan isn't working, or you are just starting a new routine, planning for some fun will help you out in the long run. Pick activities your family wants to try or already currently enjoys, to help everyone stick with it and stay motivated. Choosing activities your family members aren't very interested in, however, can make it tough to change things up or even get them out there in the first place.
5. Use non-threatening words. If you choose to play tennis or dodge ball, call it just that. Using phrases like "let's go exercise!" may not sound as fun to your family as the question "Do you think you might be able to beat me in a game of tennis today?"

Tips & Warnings

• Before you start any new exercise program or bump up your current fitness routine, experts suggest you talk to your family doctor to take steps that are just right for you and your family.