Physical Activity for the Whole FamilyPhysical exercise is very important for the health and well-being of children as well as adults. It doesn't have to mean going to the gym. There are lots of activities families can do together and have fun bonding family time while staying in shape.1. WalkTake an after dinner walk around the block. Walk instead of driving whenever you can.2. Train for a Charity Walk or RunThis is a great opportunity to work toward a goal as a family and the charity benefits as well. Race day is very exciting, and your family will have a special memory of completing something together.3. Ride Bikes TogetherSometimes riding in a neighborhood can be dangerous. So load the bikes into your car and head to a riding path or trail around a lake, the beach, or in a park.4. Take a HikeIf loading the bikes are too difficult, check out your area for age appropriate hiking trails. Most trails difficulty rating is based on the length of the trail, how level the trail is, and elevation gain.5. Go CampingCamping lends itself perfectly to physical activity. There are hiking and biking trails, fishing pools, and swimming areas. Setting up camp together, gathering wood, and building a fire are great learning experiences as well as the chance to get some exercise.6) Challenge Your Family to a Frisbee MatchHead to a park and practice your throwing, catching and of course, retrieving techniques.7. Fly a KiteChallenge each other to see who can get the kite highest in the air and keep it up for the longest.8. Build a Sand CastleGathering the sand, carrying the buckets and carving your masterpiece is all part of the great fun and physical exercise that is building a sand castle. If you live near a beach, consider signing your kids up for a sandcastle building competition.9. Play Court Tennis or Table TennisTable and court tennis are both great workouts and you may not even realize you are exercising. Many Parks and Recreation Departments have open tennis times or tournaments for families.10. GardenPlanting a family garden is fun and educational. Children get to see the flowers grow or eat the vegetables they have planted.11. Wii FitJust because it is raining outside does not mean that you can't get some exercise. Nintendo Wii provides entertainment and physical activity the whole family can do together.The most important thing is that children and adults stay active. Varying the activity keeps interest up and creates family time together.