Wednesday January 4, 2012
You'll probably want to brush up on all there is to know on equine sports. OK, so I'm guessing that not many of us did add a pony to the family this year. But if Santa did bring some sports or fitness equipment that doesn't require a saddle and bridle, are you ready to use it?
Find advice on helping kids learn to ride a bike; best exergames for your new Wii or Kinect; setting up a new iPod, or choosing fitness apps for it; and what to pack in your gym bag if you're embarking on a new workout plan. Giddy up!
Photo: Chris Windsor
Tuesday January 3, 2012
Did you resolve to help others or become more involved with a worthy cause in 2012? Two interesting ways to do just that came through my inbox this week.
Charitysub.org is a new collective giving organization. The "sub" stands for "subscription," and the idea is that members subscribe by giving just $5 a month. The group's founders will select three nonprofits each month, and members target their $5 donation to one of the three. The theme for January 2012 is childhood obesity, and the chosen charities all work with or in schools to help kids and teens learn about healthy eating and fitness.
- CATCH Healthy Habits is a program that pairs older adults with children to promote healthy habits. Volunteers age 50 and up meet weekly with elementary-age kids to play active games, prepare and share healthy snacks. During 2012, the program will expand to a total of 18 locations in 14 states.
You might also plan to participate in a fundraising run/walk with your family, collect shoes or other sports equipment for donation, or look for ways to green your workout in the new year.
Sunday January 1, 2012
You knew I would get to this category eventually, right? Especially with these resolutions, remember that SMART mnemonic from a few days ago. Instead of "I'll work out more in 2012!", give yourself a clearer goal, like one of these:
- We will each try a new fitness class or activity this year--or better yet, we'll do this every month in 2012.
- We will swap one sedentary family routine for an active one. For example, play exergames instead of having movie nights, or walk to school instead of driving.
Happy New Year! I hope you have a wonderfully happy and healthy 2012.
Saturday December 31, 2011
Being active is great for your family's health, but it does expose you to some risk of injury. Be sure to follow these health and safety resolutions this year, if you aren't already:
Come back tomorrow for the last two resolutions!
