Happiness is a long walk with your favorite pal – at least that’s what I say every night around 6pm. Why? Because after dinner has settled, I head outside with Mom, Dad, and sometimes a foster friend or two for our afternoon stroll. I’m no personal trainer, but I can tell you that walking is the perfect way to not only get you to your 10,000-step goal (I’m talking to you FitBit-ers out there) but it’s also an easy (and fun!) way to spend quality time with your family.
Since September is National Childhood Obesity Month, Health.gov is encouraging people around the U.S. to spread the word about strategies for preventing childhood obesity. Looking for an easy way to get your kid psyched about a healthy lifestyle? I’ve got the pawfect solution… walking with a pet!
Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Max, what if I don’t have a pet to walk with?” Well human, I won’t give you the spiel about heading out to your local shelter to adopt, because we all know where I stand on that subject. But, there are tons of programs out there where kids can walk with other kids and there are even some events where they can walk with a therapy pet!
But the easiest way to stay healthy is to get up, get outside and walk with those closest to you – your family. Consider setting a time each night like we do, where everyone, including the furry family members, knows to stop what they are doing and head outside for a stroll. Pick fun destinations like your neighborhood park, or, if you have a pet, a fenced in area where you can play fetch! Nothing’s better than a game of fetch, am I right?
So, let’s work together to end obesity in tiny humans, shall we? Share your favorite places to #StepItUp with me on Facebook or tag me in your walking photos on Instagram. Remember, a little progress each day adds up to BIG results – so don’t skip out on your afternoon outings with the family!
Happy Steppin’,
One Up Max