Wednesday, January 30, 2008


Family Fun and Fitness
Easy No-Gym Workouts

Going to the gym can have many advantages when you're exercising on your own — you have all-weather access to cardio and weight-training machines and the opportunity to take group classes and work with trainers. But for families, gyms aren't always so practical. For one thing, gym memberships can be expensive; for another, many clubs open their doors only to the 18-and-older crowd.

The good news is that you don't need a gym to get a good workout. You and your kids can do your daily routines right in and around your own home. If you have a backyard and the weather's nice, take your workout outside. If you're stuck indoors, you can do your push-ups, sit-ups, and jumping jacks anywhere there's enough clear floor space. Make some space in the basement, push aside the coffee table in the living room, or have your kids clear a spot on their bedroom floor. You can even work out in front of the TV if you like!

While you're getting your home workout-ready, consider purchasing some simple and inexpensive exercise equipment, such as a jump rope, an exercise ball, and some dumbbells. You don't need anything fancy — even soup cans will do as hand weights! As you can see, not having a gym membership is no excuse not to exercise. Get started today!

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