Stay Active While Supporting: Exercise Tips for Parents at Your Child’s Sporting Events
Written by a Bariatric Dietitian
Balancing family life and your own health goals isn’t always easy, especially for busy parents with kids in sports. But what if you could sneak in some exercise while cheering them on? Check out these simple ways to get moving and stay active, all while watching your kids play.
1. Take Advantage of the Track
- Walk or Jog Around the Track: Many sports facilities have tracks that surround the field. Walk or jog around the track during the game or between quarters.
- Interval Training: Alternate between walking and jogging around the track.
2. Stand and Stretch
- Standing Stretch Routine: During downtime, perform simple stretches to improve flexibility and release muscle tension.
- Mini-Squats or Lunges: Find a spot on the sidelines where you can do a few squats or lunges during breaks.
3. Use Lightweight Equipment
- Resistance Bands: Lightweight and easy to carry, resistance bands allow you to do strength exercises without bulky equipment.
- Jump Rope: Between quarters or during halftime, a quick jump rope session can help you get your heart rate up.
4. Practice Core Exercises
- Engage Core Muscles: Simply standing with good posture and tightening your core while watching the game can activate your muscles.
- Side-Leg Lifts or Standing Oblique Crunches: These exercises target core and hip muscles and are easy to do from a standing position without drawing too much attention.
5. Walk the Field or Climb the Stairs
- Walk the Field: During breaks, walk around the field for extra steps.
- Stairs: If there are bleachers, walking up and down the steps adds both cardio and strength training.
Incorporating exercise into family activities like your child’s sporting events is a great way to stay active and engaged. Every bit adds up, so give one or two of these ideas a try next time, and you can cheer on your child and take care of yourself at the same time!