8 Ways To Stay Active In Winter

I think everyone can agree that physical activity is extremely important for our health; getting kids active is easily done if you – as a parent – show them. That’s right – it is OUR responsibility as parents to ensure that our children are getting the appropriate amount of physical activity. I find it really easy to keep the kids active in the summer – walking to the park, going for bike rides, throwing/kicking around a ball in the backyard….but, then the weather turns colder and I don’t want to go outside…I want to hibernate in my nice warm house.


This can make it difficult to get active – but it doesn’t need to be. Sometimes it just takes a little extra creativity on your part (remember – if we as parents/role models are not active, our kids probably won’t be either). I have a few ideas for you – some are easy at home activities and others are out of house – but all fun and family friendly!  If you are heading outside, dress appropriately and you will likely stay warm (boots, snow pants, winter jacket, warm mitts, neck warmer and hat)

1. Family dance party: Crank up some music and get everyone dancing! Make sure there is lots of floor space so no-one gets hurt, but it’s a great way to create some awesome family memories AND get that heart rate up!
2. Organize a scavenger hunt: Set up “stations” and each family member has to perform a task before getting the next clue (10 jumping jacks, hula hoop for 30 seconds, hop on 1 foot for 20 seconds etc).
3. Take a walk: Yes, it is cold – but on some of the nicer days winter walks can be beautiful.
4. Shovel your lane way: Even young kids can help out cleaning off the lane way/walkway…just make sure that you teach them how to do it properly so they don’t hurt themselves.
5. Skating: We live in Ottawa – and have access to the Rideau Canal – FREE skating (and you can enjoy a beavertail too!) If that’s too cold for you, then look up the schedule for public skating at many of the area indoor rinks.
6. Skiing: I never managed to pick it up, but there are a number of ski hills in the area.
7. Organized activities: There are a number of programs you can enroll your children in (martial arts, gymnastics, swimming, skating, hockey, indoor soccer etc)
8. Go Sledding - get your winter gear on and grab your toboggan, then head over to a local hill for some sledding fun!  My hubby builds one in our front yard for us!

I think one of the most important things when it comes to kids and activity is to make it fun! If you’re having fun, it won’t seem like such a chore. It’s a great opportunity to create some terrific family memories –and great photo opportunities too!