Family walks as a sport – walking is the most underestimated activity!
Why walking is the most underrated form of exercise
Science shows that placing one foot in front of the other leads to impressive mental and physical benefits. Current figures suggest that many people think of walking as more of a leisure activity or a means of transport rather than a form of structured activity or sport. Some may even believe that walking as a sport offers fewer benefits than other types of sports or forms of more intense exercise, such as fitness classes, running or cycling.
Impressive mental and physical benefits.
However, there is great evidence that walking offers real benefits for the whole family including grandmother and grandad. It is also a gentle sport that can be enjoyed by all members of the family together, from all age groups.
So it’s ideal for spending quality time together in nature and combining exercise, fun and fresh air.
Family walks without whining
As soon as the child stands on its own two feet, walking becomes exciting and challenging in a new way. While a stroller or baby carrier should be brought along for younger children, older children can build up stamina for longer walking times and distances while walking.
Children these days expect constant challenges and entertainment
The „Are we there yet?“ syndrome is a major motivational problem for most parents walking with children.
It may take a little creativity to maintain interest and reduce the whining. Helpful for motivation is usually for the children a „destination“ for the walk (playground, forest or park) with a „reward“ (no food, ideally in the form of other fun activities) and a running bike, scooter or other devices that makes walking fun for the little ones, too.
Be creative while outside
Smaller children usually don’t have the stamina for long walks, so it’s a good idea to bring a tricycle or running bike. However, parents should be prepared to have to carry the bike later on (when buying, look for a lightweight model ☺).
Advantages of regular family walks for child development
Children need a lot of exercise. Some of these movements should be playful. Others should involve their upper body, swinging, climbing and hanging, and much of it should be running and walking, like during the ActiveKids training. When it comes to children (and parents), walking is essential for the development of the human body.
There are body benefits that can only be achieved by walking.
Each type of movement has its benefits, but to fully develop all systems, walking is unique. Our body responds very specifically to the different forces that are generated by movement. There are small chemical changes that occur as a result of the different angles and bone positions that we use. There are mechanoreceptors in the bone that can only sense certain styles of movement.
Walking is not an option, it is a requirement.
For you and your children! Start today and join one of our fun family walks and family walking near Marbella.
