Family is one the most important things we can be a part of. I know without family as a foundation in my life, recklessness would be more prevalent, and few goals would be set and obtained. Many people don’t realize the power and impact a family can have on one another with proper encouragement and reinforcement.

These very same attributes can be used to obtain family fitness achievements. I am sure many roll their eyes saying how hard it is to exercise as a family. It’s hard enough to exercise on your own let alone with your kids, right? Well if you look at the situation as an investment, trust me, you will make time.

When childhood obesity is ballooning as it is today, a little time invested in the family will do little harm and a lot of good. Childhood obesity costs are well in the billions ($14 billion in 2012) while the cost for adult obesity is higher ($147 billion in 2008 according to the CDC). The high numbers equate to thousands per child and adult. Take the thousands lost in healthcare in one year for an obese child/adult and boom…you have an awesome family vacation!

You can use that money for their college fund. It doesn’t matter, it’s just more money in your pocket!

So what is the plan to action?

Well, huddle your family together and clear a 30 minute time period for 5 days a week (or at least three hours a day) for some nonstop fun! If the day comes when no one wants to exercise, push the time slot to another day. Display a chart of accomplishments (i.e. consecutive days without a missed workout) goals, and exercises for each day. Follow these 3 steps and you and your family will not only become stronger physically but also a stronger family unit. A family that works together stays together!

-Phil