Families around the world are spending more time together due to COVID-19 stay-at-home orders in many states. While the orders might impact outdoor group fitness activities, it’s still possible to get or stay in shape—and doing it with your family can help build relationships and accountability, increasing your success. Health professionals recognize the importance of staying physically fit, especially now. Exercising improves your mental health, decreases your risk for heart disease, and keeps weight down. And there are many additional benefits for pursuing a fitness routine with your family:
- Build physical and emotional endurance.
- Communicate in new and different ways.
- Discover unknown athletic talents and show that physical activity can be fun.
- Offer parents new ways to be role models and provide positive feedback.
- Raise general injury prevention awareness.
- Show children what friendly, healthy competition looks like.
- Take advantage of new ways to bond and create family memories.
- Teach children to set goals and develop planning skills.
Family fitness resources are easy to find. Many parents start online, learning from the many agencies, organizations, and professionals who offer guidance and knowledge on the best ways to keep families healthy. They find tips on which activities might be worth trying, how to schedule a fitness regimen, and how the family can keep up the momentum once they have begun. During the coronavirus pandemic, many fitness practitioners and gyms have made resources available to individuals and families looking for ways to exercise at home. These might include videos, guided fitness routines, or live classes offered through videoconferencing.
Healthcare professionals are another great family resource. Whether the topic is childhood obesity or the different nutritional needs of pediatric and adult patients, healthcare professionals are a great resource for keeping families healthy. This translates into helpful (and healthful) tips from the healthcare providers at school or at the pediatrician’s office.
While you’re stuck at home, why not start a new fitness routine? With just a little commitment, you’ll strengthen your family—inside and out.
Educating families and communities about the importance of good health is an important role. If you’re ready to take the next step toward a career in health education, consider earning a degree to strengthen your skills or help you transition into the job you’ve always wanted. Thanks to the advantages of online learning, it’s more convenient than ever to take your education to the next level. Walden University offers an MS in Health Education and Promotion that could be a great next step for your future.
Walden University is an accredited institution offering a MS in Health Education and Promotion and number of other public health and health sciences degree programs. Expand your career options and earn your degree in a convenient, flexible format that fits your busy life.
Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.