Hi, I'm Julie! 

I get tired of staying at home all the time, don't you? Did you know that exercise can be a fun way that you can spend time as a family?

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak we are seeing an increase of sedentary behavior and obesity in children of all ages due to federal and state social-distancing regulation. Children are not able to get outside the home and exercise. I am hoping that this book helps families understand that exercise and fitness can take place in and around the home during a pandemic. Siegle, Luz, et.al. (2020) stated that moments spent in outdoor activities and in nature are critical to generate healthy movement and better physical, mental and emotional health. This is the reason why I chose this topic to write a book about, and I focused predominantly on outdoor exercise and play. Shelly Anderson of Finding Your Fit (2020) had some good ideas for indoor exercising as a family.  

Anderson stated that there are plenty of items around the house that can be used for resistance. A simple chair can be used for squats, extensions, and as a weighted object. Water bottles are great to use as weights, she said, because you can hydrate with the water in-between reps and lessen the weight as you go. These exercises can be used by the whole family as well. It's not easy to stay active during a pandemic, but it is not impossible.

Here are five ways that you can have fun with your family while exercising. 

1. Take an early morning stroll down your street or at a local park. The fresh air is good for your lungs.

2. Have fun competing in your backyard or on the sidewalk. Jumping rope is good for your heart. See who can jump the most times without making a mistake.

3. Practice a sport you love to play. Even if your team isn't meeting right now; it doesn't mean that you can't work on your moves. You can even teach your family how to play by holding a scrimmage in your backyard or at a park.