By Shannon Slayer, owner of FIT4MOM Southwest NoVa
Physical fitness often goes hand in hand with health or wellness. Keeping your body moving has been shown to have numerous health benefits, but how do you make it a habit for the whole family?
“Children are great imitators. So, give them something great to imitate,” is an anonymous quote that does a good job of answering that question.
Movement is more than just exercise—it’s a way of life, and it starts at home. As parents, we set the foundation for our children’s lifelong habits. When they see us prioritizing movement and wellness, they’re more likely to follow suit. Plus, keeping them active helps channel their natural energy in a positive way!
The DMV offers countless opportunities for families to stay active together. Whether it’s exploring nature, joining a community fitness group or trying something new, movement can be both fun and rewarding. The best part? You’ll be building strong family bonds while leading by example.
Get Moving Outdoors
One of the best ways to get moving together is by exploring the great outdoors. The DMV is home to beautiful parks and trails perfect for walking, running or biking. Rock Creek Park in Washington, D.C. offers scenic trails and plenty of open space for adventure, while Great Falls Park boasts breathtaking waterfalls and hikes suitable for all levels. For those looking to mix a little nature and education, the National Arboretum provides a stunning setting for a family stroll. Making an outing of it with a scavenger hunt or picnic can turn a simple walk into a memorable experience.
Get Your Blood Pumping With Adventure
If your family loves a little adrenaline, adventure courses and trampoline parks are a great way to combine fitness and fun. Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park in Springfield, Virginia, offers thrilling obstacle courses that challenge both parents and kids. Indoor trampoline parks like Urban Air Adventure Park and Sky Zone provide exciting ways to burn energy, climb and jump to your heart’s content.
Get Fit Together
For those who thrive in a group setting, family-friendly fitness programs offer structured ways to stay active while building community. Many county recreation centers provide group fitness classes designed for families, and local yoga or dance studios often host parent-child sessions. Rowing and kayaking on the Potomac or participating in a family fun run can also be great ways to keep moving while enjoying quality time together.
Get Into Active Routines
Movement doesn’t have to be an event—it can be part of your daily routine.
Walking or biking to school, having a dance party in the living room, stretching together before bedtime or turning fitness into a game (like who can hold a plank the longest) are all simple ways to incorporate activity into everyday life.
Staying active isn’t just about fitness—it’s about connection. By making movement a family tradition, you’re not only improving your health but also strengthening the bond between you and your loved ones. So, lace up your sneakers, grab your kids and start creating a legacy of movement that will last a lifetime!
Learn More: FIT4MOM
For moms looking to prioritize fitness while staying connected with their little ones, FIT4MOM in the DMV offers a supportive community and a variety of programs designed for every stage of motherhood. Stroller Strides allows moms to work out while engaging their babies, while Body Boost and Run Club provide opportunities to challenge yourself alongside other supportive women. More than just a workout, FIT4MOM is a village that encourages moms to embrace wellness, strength, and camaraderie. Find a village near you at fit4mom.com/locations.
