Spring Into Fitness

Being physically active with your family is a great way to stay healthy and make exercise fun. As the weather starts to get warm, get outside and enjoy the sunshine but be prepared for cooler days as well. If you are thinking about springing in some activity, how much do you actually need?

Adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and at least 2 days of muscle-strengthening activity each week. 

• Or get the same benefits in half the time. If you step it up to vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, aim for at least 75 minutes a week.
• If that is more than you can do right now, do what you can. Even 5 minutes of physical activity has real health benefits.

Kids and teens ages 6 to 17 need at least 60 minutes every day. Most of it can be moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Anything that gets their heart beating faster counts.

• At least 3 days a week, encourage your kids to step it up to vigorous-intensity aerobic activity.
• As part of their 60 minutes, kids and teens also need 3 days a week of muscle-strengthening activity such as climbing or swinging on the monkey bars.
• They also need 3 days a week of bone-strengthening activity such as running and jumping.

Fun springtime activities might include flying a kite, playing soccer, going on a nature hike, taking a bike ride or having a picnic in the park. For something new, try gardening, playing pickleball or kayaking.