Personal Development For Dads Challenge #3 - Exercise
STAYING in shape is probably near the top of most of our to-do-lists yet never gets crossed off for most of us. Many people don't start their exercise and/or dieting regimen because they don't feel good about themselves and lack motivation, though ironically, getting in shape is just the thing to improve their self-esteem.
The benefits of getting and staying in shape are profound. Besides increased self-esteem, exercising increases your libido, your stamina and most importantly, your lifespan. On paper, exercising sounds like the Fountain of Youth, but to our minds, it sounds more like a root canal.

If you are serious about living a long, happy life, then starting and maintaining your exercise regimen is the most important decision you can make. Stop procrastinating. To help you get started, try out some of the fun, free exercise ideas below as soon as possible.
1. Walk- Walking is a free activity with huge health benefits and if you plan your routes, can actually be quite entertaining. Go to your local Chamber of Commerce or information center and pick up maps to routes and historical properties in your area. You can also walk to establishments you frequent on a regular basis and kill two birds with one stone.
2. Join a Team- Are you interested in a certain sport? Been wanting to meet new people? Joining a local recreational sports team is a great way to get in shape without the stigma that you are actually working out. Sports are fun and allow you the opportunity to meet new people that have at least one thing in common with you - an interest in the same sport. You should find ads for free groups in the newspaper or on Craigslist.
3. Ride Bikes With Your Kids- Of the ideas listed here, riding bikes with my kids is by far my favorite form of exercise. Choose a route that will be strenuous enough to be beneficial, but not so difficult your kids cannot complete it under their own power. The added benefits of this idea are that you can teach your children the importance of exercising and you can spend the time bonding.
4. Swim- Swimming is another great exercise idea you can do alone or with your kids. It's also known to be one of the most beneficial forms of exercise as it involves all your muscles. Check out this directory of swim exercises for workouts according to experience level.
5. Hike- Hiking is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the U.S. as American look for more adventurous forms of exercise. Most cities have hiking trails for all skill levels that let you see your town from a different perspective. Find trails in your area at StepWhere and LocalHikes.
6. Stretch- Stretching reduces muscle tension and increases range of motion, blood circulation and energy level. It's also important to stretch from a young age and is a good tool to teach your children. Try some of these stretching exercises for better flexibility and injury prevention.
7. Tai-Chi- Sometimes describes as "meditation in motion", Tai-Chi is a terrific form of passive exercise that helps balance body and mind. Its benefits include stress reduction, greater balance and increased flexibility. Check local bulletin boards and publications for groups or set your own hours at home. Visit this site for loads of Tai-Chi exercises and information.
8. Yoga- It is just as important to keep your mind in shape as it is to keep your body in shape. Yoga does both. It will not help if you are looking to increase strength or muscle mass, but it will help you increase range of motion, injury prevention and blood circulation. There are hundreds of techniques, so you should be able to find some you enjoy.
9. Gym Exercises- You don't have to join a gym to get some of the gym's best benefits. Whether you are looking to build muscle or stamina, there are several ideas you can do right at home. Check out these ideas and statistics for a good starting point.
10. Park Games- Your local park is a fun place to plan games with your kids. Tag, pickle, Frisbee, kickball and catch are always as close as your neighborhood park. Keep up with your kids for the best workout!
Try out as many of these ideas as you need until you find one you can enjoy doing on a regular basis. The important thing is to find exercise activities that you will like doing over a period of time because all exercises require time and repetition before they show any substantial rewards. Enjoy working out now and enjoy the benefits later.
DAD TALK
* Was your family into physical fitness when you were growing up?
* How has that affected your current exercise schedule?
* Have any other exercies ideas you can do with your children?
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