by Karyn Maier, Managing Editor

May 2008– The National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) urges parents, schools and communities to work together to help children become more physically active by creating “physical activity friendly” environments.

For Coaches and Teachers

The pledge to promote a healthy lifestyle through physical fitness shouldn’t end at the end of the school day. Instead, you can extend this important message past by encouraging family participation as well. Here's a few ideas that can help get everyone into gear…

>> Organize a Stepping Out and Up Night, with the cooperation of your school or other local facility. Stations can be set up for activities that will appeal to all ages and fitness levels, such as yoga, kickboxing, hip-hop dancing, aerobics and Pilates. You could even recruit physical fitness instructors from your community to provide how-to demonstrations and assist with participant supervision.

>> Offer free health screenings with the assistance of medical professionals from your community’s health department, police department, teen center or other organization.

>> Invite families to participate in a Walk Your Way to Fitness marathon. (Make sure you make arrangements for a rain date in case of bad weather.) 

Fitness on the Home Front

Kicking off National Physical Fitness & Sports Month at home begins with implementing special family activities that involve physical activity, such as in-line skating, bike rodeos and family fitness nights. Simply taking a walk together after dinner is an easy and enjoyable way to get everyone moving.

The National Association for Sports and Physical Education and Shape Up America has no shortage of ideas to encourage family fitness—not just during National Physical Fitness & Sports Month, but everyday (even rainy ones).

Ready to get moving? Click here for 99 Tips for Family Fitness Fun.