How much does each person in our home need to move?

Children and Youth Children should be active and moving for at least an hour a day every day.
Adults Adults should be active 2 ½ hours a week or 30 minutes for 5 days a week.
Seniors/Elders Seniors as well need about 2 ½ hours a week if they are generally fit or don’t have any major health issues preventing them from physical activity.
Special Groups (Pregnant, physical disabilities etc.) If you fall into this group or you think you may, talk to your doctor for how much physical activity you need.

 

How can I help my family be more active?

Families can get active just about anywhere. Sometimes it takes a little imagination and creativity. Other times parents may be able to find events that promote physical activity in the newspaper, local radio, Team Inyo website calendar, social media, or even from friends and family. Below we have listed a few ideas from the California Champions for Change website and other ideas that may be helpful for parents.

Get Moving at Home

  • Challenge each family member to get moving while watching TV and have the whole family do a different exercise each time a different commercial comes on.
  • Take family walks in the evenings after dinner. During the winter when the sun goes down take flashlights and play I Spy and you are taking a walk to make it more interesting.
  • Start the day by dancing to music that everyone in your family enjoys. What a way to get everyone up in the morning.

Get Moving at Work

  • Start a walking group with coworkers or get a walking buddy so that you both stay accountable to your physical activity goals.
  • Parents can park farther away from their work or even walk home on lunches to get some physical activity in.
  • Do yoga or stretch at your work in a quiet spot. This will relax your body especially when your body is stressed.

Get Moving at School

  • Team up with other parents and take turns walking the kids to school. Parents can also connect with other walking to school promotions in their area.
  • Find out how you can help your child prepare for any physical fitness tests.
  • Connect your child to sports or after school activities that promote physical activity.

Get Moving in Your Neighborhood

  • Find a safe walking path in your neighborhood for you and your family to walk.
  • Walk to nearby grocery stores, churches, parks, or other places you normally go which are a comfortable walking distance for you and your family.
  • Get connected to local community gardens in your area and grow some healthy food while getting active.

For more information on healthy eating, physical activity, drinking water, and other tools, check out California Champions for Change website.