Dashing through the snow…

It is inevitable, the winter months are here and will be here for the next 6 months…especially in Chicago, here are some ways to keep your kids (and yourself) active through these dreary days.

My personal favorite is Dancing! When I was young, I loved watching any show that had music playing and people dancing. Dance Party USA was a must record TV show and even featured an early Kelly Ripa. Nowadays, Dancing with the Stars is a great alternative. You don’t need any equipment, or safety gear only a dance floor. Turn the volume up and get moving. I sometimes try to mimic my daughter, she is only 3 and has moves most have never seen before. She uses every muscle and has never complained
about being tired. There is also nothing like watching an uninhibited child dancing her feet off.

Now I hate to promote video games, but if you have a Wii, you already know that it is a terrific way to stay active inside when the weather doesn’t permit outside. Wii has games that accommodate all ages. When I say all, I really mean it. They even have games for your tiniest tot. Wii sports and Wii Resort are games that come with a Wii console system and are packed full of fun. Boxing is my personal favorite, golf, bowling and tennis are just as fun. Wii Fit is a great gift to get your fitness enthusiast as it provides a great workout (with personal trainer) all from the privacy of your own home.

If you are eager to still get outside and be one with nature, snow is a great resistance mechanism when it comes to any normal exercise. Shoveling the driveway, building a snowman, or a typical snowball fight is certain to get the heart beating, but if you are looking for something a little more exciting, sledding should be at the top of your list. Sure, going down the hills may increase your heart rate, but climbing to the top of the hill to go again is a guaranteed calorie burner.

What do you do to keep active during the winter?