Dancing for Valentine's Day

Finding a non-cliché way to celebrate Valentine's Day can be difficult, especially if you're on a diet and trying to avoid the chocolate sweets. While we may not think of exercise as a fun way to celebrate, it may just get your heart rate up and fill your heart with laughter and love, especially if you ask some loved ones to join you.

When my kids were little, we used to have impromptu dance parties. Sometimes we would waltz, twirl, jump around, or all of the above! Our dance form didn't really matter; we were just having fun spending time together as we got in some good cardio exercise! If you have kids of your own, you can start up an impromptu dance party to the radio or attend a local daddy/daughter dance.

Even if you don't have kids, you can still have some fun dancing this Valentine's Day. If you feel like staying home, you can purchase a dance exercise videos on DVD or you can stream one online. If you can't dance, there are some good walking videos set to music. However, if you do feel like going out, you may look for a contradance or a Zumba class. Whether you invite a friend or go to make friends, it'll be sure to get your heart rate up as you have some fun celebrating Valentine's Day.

Avoid Backpack Overloading

How much does that backpack weigh? Studies have shown that the weight of a backpack and the amount of time carrying a backpack can impact neck and shoulder posture. If a backpack is 15% of an individual’s body weight, then it is too heavy for a child to maintain proper posture. Many children and older teens develop poor posture while carrying heavy backpack loads, and the affects can be hard to reverse. Avoiding heavy backpacks can mean avoiding chronic back pain.

Exercise with Your Child Week

Did you know that August 7 - 13th is Exercise with Your Child Week? With school right around the corner, finding fun ways to exercise with your children this week will give them wonderful summer memories. Get creative!
Some ideas:

• Go for a bike ride
• Walk at the park
• Organize a scavenger hunt
• Have a dance party
• Play catch in the backyard

And of course, don't forget to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated!