Here’s How To Use The Kids And Pets To Get Fitter And Leaner
Bring the kids and dogs along

February 15, 2018

It’s time to get fitter as a family. Research shows that both furry and non-furry family members help you get fitter and leaner, quicker. Race organisers and event planners now regularly include kids’ races, so next time you sign up for an obstacle race, cycle or run, check all the race categories: you might be able to ride or run with them, or they’ll get their own, shorter version of whatever you’re doing. Either way, it’s a great way to build family spirit, some competitive drive, and the right kind of healthy habits your offspring need. And besides races, there are other family activities:

Strava

Arguably the most popular training competition app (and pretty damn addictive), it uses your smartphone’s GPS to break down your runs and cycles into segments, and puts the times into a global leaderboard. Also good for finding new routes. Free. iOS and Android. strava.com

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Run with a leash

There are dog-friendly routes in most South African metropoles; just make sure you have your pooch on a leash and take along a few poo bags too. Keen to enter a race with Rex? Check out some of these races where dogs are welcome. caninesports.co.za

Trampoline parks

Whether it’s Bounce Inc or Rush, both these franchises offer a fantastic antigravity family adventure, and if you stay on the springs nonstop for 30 minutes, it offers a surprisingly tough workout.

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Parkruns

Get some healthy home competition going by enlisting everyone into the free, weekly timed 5km runs. There are clubs across the country, and it’s a great way to get running fit together. Did we mention it was free? If your kid is under 11, you’ll need to run with them. Hopefully, you’ll be able to keep up. parkrun.co.za

Related: How Kabelo Mabalane Is Running To Inspire All South Africans

Climbing

Round up the squad and take them to an indoor climbing gym to introduce them to bouldering. Honestly, if you’re all starting at the same time, your kids will probably teach you a few things.

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Park workouts

Do a little research, and you’ll find at least one park near you with a jungle gym for both kids and for adults – you’ll be surprised how much training you’ll be able to get done. If you need some guidance, check out our bodyweight training workouts at dev.mh.co.za/workouts/