FAMILY FIT

Family life involves trying to find things to suit as many people as possible. Time constraints
can make it difficult to choose an activity that all will enjoy, as well as the age differences of your children.
Regular exercise as a family encourages:

1.Family unity
2.Bonding with all members of the family
3.Bridging generation gaps
4.A positive attitude towards health

Adopt some of the following strategies to increase children’s fitness. Encourage active alternatives to sedentary pastimes

5.Take them up Mt Coolum, bike ride to Marcoola or Noosa, kick the footy on Coolum Beach
6.Become active yourself and set an example
7.Walk whenever you can or make fun walking trips (e.g. give a reward for after the walk)
8.Limit time spent watching TV or using the computer
9.Encourage physically demanding activities such as sports,
10.Nippers, Soccer, NRL, AFL, Netball etc.
11.Try doing gardening together start a vegie patch or herb garden.

Remember, even small increases in moderate activity will be of benefit. Reward behaviour with things other than food to encourage good eating habits. Food is designed as fuel for the body and good eating patterns should be encouraged from a young age.

A great resource for further information regarding nutrition and physical activity for children and families can be found on the Medical Journal of Australia website at http://www.mja.com.au/.