by Nikki Steep

Created on: April 14, 2008

Who really wants to be a couch potato? Oh . . . well, okay, maybe you actually do-but you sure don't want those little tater tots stuck to the sofa cushions. And to get them going, you've got to roll yourself out of that afghan and start moving right along with them.

Here are 10 ideas for fit families (who want to have some fun along the way):

Create an obstacle course in the hallway or yard made from small chairs and tables, grocery carton "tunnels," step stools, etc.

If possible, bike as a family on a regular basis. Bonus ideas: join a bike-a-thon for a good cause when the opportunity presents itself; bike in new locations around town; take bikes with you on a family trip or rent bikes at a scenic spot while you're on vacation.

A volleyball or badminton net set up in the backyard is physical exercise waiting to happen. Look for that kind of sports equipment as well as bats and balls, croquet sets, basketball backboards, etc. can sometimes be found at thrift shops; some cities have stores which specialize in recycled sporting goods.

Look for exercise videos created especially for kids or families. Save these for days when it's too hot or cold to play outside.

Create family charts to record personal bests for all kinds of physical activities, from running the length of an inside hall to performing jumping jacks.

Try to come up with alternate, more physical, activities for you and your friends: an outing to the pool or to the ice-skating or roller rink, for example, instead of a trip to the mall for a movie.

Walkinstead of ridewhenever possible: to the store, to the library, to a friend's house, etc..

Take a hike. Sure, a walk in the woods is great, but a well planned out city route-including some hills, if possible, can provide a great workout for the entire family. Note: Fair play on this one includes riding to the location where you'll begin your walk and taking a circuitous route back to the bus stop or car.

Drag out every piece of "sports equipment" you've accumulated over the years. Make up a game using, for example: a soccer ball, a bat, a tennis rackets, and a croquet mallet. Have everyone in the family collaborate on rules. After you've played a few times, invite another family over to join in.

Finally, make it a goal for everyone in the family to be able to answer yes to all of the following questions:

Can you run a couple of blocks?

Can you catch a ball?

Can you touch your toes?

Can you do sit-ups and push-ups ?

Can you swim the length of a pool?

Can you ride a bike?

Can you skate?

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