Working in the Workouts: Get out of the car

I've written about walking kids to school as a slam-dunk for a parent to to get daily exercise. But why stop at school?

I realize it's not practical to walk everywhere and some of us don't live in neighborhoods within walking distance of various errands or activities. If this is you, I recommend taking stock of those errands or activities. I'm willing to bet there's at least one or two you could give up in favor of walking or biking around the neighborhood with your kid(s).

If you live in a neighborhood like mine, you can walk to your kid's school, the park, the rec center, the library, a cafe for lunch, even the doctor or dentist. This is what I do. Incorporating walking into your day has myriad benefits; a bunch of short, brisk walks add up to countless calories burned. For example, yesterday I walked my daughter to her first ballet class at the rec center, rode the stationary bike while she danced, and then walked home. Today, I walked downtown for lunch with my daughter, then walked to her preschool a couple of blocks away and then back home. Both days I logged more than 30 minutes of continuous exercise. Bonus strength training for pushing a stroller, too!
I often see neighbors in cars going the same places I am. What a shame to burn gas instead of calories! Occasionally I see them adopting my strategy. There's a woman in town with three kids who I see biking or walking with them almost daily to and from various places. I noticed my neighbor walking her daughter home from preschool the other day. Not only will you be doing your body good, you'll be giving your kid a much more enjoyable time than a ride in the carseat.