Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Traveling can keep your kids in shape, if you do it right

One of the little known benefits of traveling with your kids is the fitness aspect of it. Depending on where you go and what you do when you get there, you can turn almost any vacation into one that focuses on family fitness.

Fitness is at the forefront of the news as of late. Michelle Obama has taken on the task of slimming down USA children. In recent years there has been a growing problem with young children and obesity, whether that is due to personal diet, poor food in schools, and busy lives causing parents to prefer to line up at the drive through rather than prepare a home cooked meal.  Children are spending more time being babysat by the television and less time running around outside.  It's a formidable problem that the First Lady has taken on, one that affects all aspects of a child's life.

As a parent, when you take a vacation you'd like to kick back and relax. No cooking, no cleaning, and no stress! You can still have all of that, but you can also do yourself and your children a favour by incorporating a proper diet and exercise no matter where you plan on taking your vacation:

  • DisneyWorld/Land - Yes, Disney is a mecca of food, fun, and sweet treats, but it's also a huge place. There are endless opportunities to walk and many places for your children to run and play. It's easy to avoid bad food choices at Disney by purchasing fruit and plain water at the various kiosks. Many of the restaurants also sell healthy food choices. 
  • Road Trips - Plan stops for driving breaks. Map out your route and find playgrounds along the way so your kids can run and play. Bring your own food to avoid stopping at fast food resturants. If you must stop, avoid sugary sodas and purchase fresh juices instead.
  • Beach - The beach is a great place to relax, but it can also be a wonderful place to excercise.  If your family is staying right on the beach, get your kids out for a run each morning. There is nothing so beautiful as a run along the ocean.  Play beach volleyball with your children or have a lively game of frisbee.  BBQ fare is healthier than frying, and BBQ vegetables are often a hit at a beach picnic. 
No matter where you travel with your family, you can find ways to trim the fat and add some exercise. Taking a tip from the First Lady, we can all do our part to ensure our children have a long and healthy future. 

Pack light on your next family vacation by renting from Travel BaBees!

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