One Great Reason to Exercise TODAY

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I know there are some people who enjoy exercising. They actually like going to the gym or running in a 5K. I am not one of these people. I would much rather read a book under a comfy blanket or eat a bowl of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream than work out. For me, exercise is a necessary drudgery. Nonetheless, I still try to make it a priority in my life.

Here's why: I exercise for my children. I know there are plenty of other reasons to exercise. It's great for your health, your body is a temple of the Lord, it improves your mood, etc, etc. And though all of these are great reasons to take care of yourself, the one thing that really gets me off the couch is my children.

Obesity is a growing problem in America. With fast food families and the prominence of indoor activities (like TV, video games, and the Internet), it's no wonder kids are becoming more and more unhealthy.

When we exercise, we encourage our kids to get moving too. Especially when we make exercise a family affair. Here are a few easy ways to do that:

1. When you're watching your favorite television shows, use commercial breaks for fitness. Get down and do push-ups or sit-ups during breaks.

2. Go on daily walks as a family.

3. Get your bike out of storage (speaking to myself here) and ride with your children.

4. Have a family fitness day once a week. Go to the swimming pool. Hike. Play at the park. Participate in a sporting activity.

5. Do some housework or gardening as a family.

6. Take the dog for a walk.

7. Park further away from the door of the grocery store or school. Better yet, leave the car at home and walk. 

Our kids are learning from us. If we don't take care of our bodies, what makes us think they will take care of theirs?

My three-year-old would watch cartoons or play on my phone all day long if I would let him. And to be honest, sometimes it's tempting. Especially on those days when the baby has kept me up the night before or I'm not feeling up to par. And it's certainly acceptable every so often when circumstances make it necessary. The problem is when excessive TV time becomes the norm. When hours in front of the TV or computer becomes an everyday event.

We have a responsibility to our children. As much as I don't like exercise (and believe me, I really don't like it), it's worth it for my kids. They are worth it.

What are some ways you incorporate exercise into your daily life?