Don't Forget to Play!

by Lis Garrett

I’m one of those people for whom structured exercise hold zero appeal. Zilch. Even if you were to show me, by some mystical means of voodoo magic, how toned my thighs and rear could become if only I were to use the treadmill, I would still have no desire to exercise. I’m a big fan of Yoga, however, yet I don’t consider it exercising, no matter how much I sweat or how out of breath I am after a session. Something so relaxing simply cannot be equated with working out.  

Exercise is exercise, as far as I’m concerned. But call it by any other name, and suddenly exercise becomes a lot less boring.  So if you would rather play than exercise, here are a few games to keep you fit and healthy, and you just might get those toned thighs, after all!  

Football Tag. Leave it to my husband and children to create a sport that has you huffing and puffing and basically running for your life. The rules are simple: The person with the football is “it.” He or she must chase everyone within a designated space while trying to “tag” them by hitting them with the football. If you are tagged by the football, you’re it! Tip: Don’t forget to remind Dad he must play gently when children are involved! 

Hide ‘n Seek. When played outside, this popular game rises to a whole new level of fun. The rules are simple: One person counts to 20 while everyone else hides within a designated space. Once she is finished counting and yells, “Come out, come out, wherever you are!” your goal is to make it safely “home.” If she tags you before you reach home, you’re it! Tip: Never underestimate how quickly your mother-in-law can run. 

Jumping Rope Contest. Even if you happen to be the reigning queen of jumping rope, there’s probably a pint-sized version of yourself waiting in the wings to dethrone you. The rules are simple: See who can jump rope the longest without stopping. Tip: The hula-hoop, my personal favorite, is also a fun way to burn a few calories. My record time is just over three minutes.

Lis Garrett never misses an opportunity to play with her family. Lis is the senior editor and a contributing writer for Root & Sprout.

image courtesy shelead