Active Living

Maintaining a healthy weight can be accomplished through eating healthy and staying physically active. There are many ways to get 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Divide your daily routine into a few 10- to 15-minute activity breaks and you are on your way. Your kids should also be active throughout the day. Here are a few ideas to be more active — at work, school, home, and in your neighborhood.

Be Active at Work

• Walk during breaks or at lunchtime.
• Start a Walking Club.
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator.
• Ride your bike to work.
• Park your car farther away from the entrance and walk.
• Get on and off the bus a couple of blocks away from your work.

Be Active at School

• Ride bikes or walk to school with your child. Take turns with other parents and neighbors.
• Encourage your child to go outside and play during recess and lunch — jump rope, walk, run, or play kick-ball, basketball or soccer.

Be Active at Home

• Take family walks in the evening after dinner.
• Play with your kids — dance, jump rope, play tag or hide-and-go-seek.
• Dance to your favorite music.
• Plant a family garden and eat what you grow.
• Limit screen time to two hours or less each day. This includes TV, computers, and video games.
• Exercise while watching TV. Challenge family members to crunches and push-ups.
• Do stretches before bedtime. It may help you and your children relax and sleep better.

Be Active in your Neighborhood

• Walk, bike, or jog with a friend or family member. Find safe walking paths in your neighborhood.
• Plant a community garden. Take turns planting and harvesting with your neighbors.
• Check with your local school, YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, or other community groups for low-cost or free after-school and summer programs.
• Find a local farmers' market and walk to buy your fresh fruits and vegetables.