Family Fitness Ideas for the Fourth of July by Melissa Dickens

Here in South Texas around the 4^th of July it is HOT, HOT, HOT! But boy is it a great time to take part in some family fitness activities.

The first idea that comes to my mind is any type of game you can play in the pool.  This should be for obvious reasons—the pool can cool you down! Marco Polo, hide and seek, first one to find the object, relay races, have a water volleyball tournament, these are all great games to have fun and cool off. 

Another water idea is to visit a lake or a river and go canoeing, rafting, or just plain swimming.  Water activities are bound to keep you cool.  Just be sure to remember the sunscreen!

If there are no water choices available in your area perhaps you could visit a local fitness facility like the Y. Who knows, you might love it so much you may want to join for an everyday family fitness challenge.  

Still, without a gym facility you can still get your exercise on and have a great time!  Try some good old fashioned playground games. There are lots of different “tag” games you can play with your family and freeze tag is one with constant running, stopping and dodging that will tax your cardiovascular system and also demand more than a smidgen of agility. You could add a special touch (and also escape the heat of the sun) by playing this game at night. Use different brightly colored glow stick necklaces and run until you can’t run no more! Just make sure the playing area is free of obstacles and potential safety hazards.

If you still find the heat unbearable try bowling, playing indoor tennis, or many other indoor activities your whole family can participate in.  You can always host a neighborhood (or just for the family) Wii/ Xbox Kinect, or Playstation Move sports tournament.   

A fun activity that my family has enjoyed for the Fourth of July is getting involved with a parade. For the past five years we have helped a local group decorate their float and also participated in the actual parade. The best part is that we walk, jog, or run the route instead of riding on the float. We haven’t ever noticed the heat either.... we just have lots of fun!

Lastly, another simple idea to round out the day or weekend would be to walk to the fireworks display instead of driving. Even if you are running a little late you won’t miss the explosions or the “Ohhhhs,” and “Ahhhhs.”

Whatever you decide make sure you stay safe, wear sunscreen, drink lots and lots of water, and have FUN!