As the summer sun beckons, there's no reason to spend all your outdoor time lounging in a hammock. If you're looking for a way to keep your kids entertained while also staying active, classic outdoor games offer the perfect solution. These games not only provide endless fun but also allow everyone, including adults, to get some exercise and burn off excess calories.

How Exercise Helps You Manage Your Weight

While eating healthy foods in moderation is a key factor in weight loss, exercise also plays a crucial role in weight management. By converting calories into energy, physical activity helps you burn off excess fat. Additionally, building muscle mass boosts your metabolism, allowing your body to burn calories even when you're at rest.

Additional Benefits of Regular Exercise

Exercise provides a wide range of benefits beyond just controlling your weight (and helping to improve your overall health). The advantages of staying active include:

• Improved Mood:Physical activity stimulates brain chemicals that promote feelings of happiness, relaxation and reduced anxiety. Plus, achieving a trimmer body can improve your self-image, adding to your mood boost.

• Higher Energy Levels:Regular exercise brings oxygen and nutrients to your cells, enabling them to produce energy more efficiently. It also strengthens your cardiovascular system, improving stamina and overall endurance.

• Better Sleep:Engaging in regular physical activity helps you fall asleep faster, enjoy deeper sleep and wake up feeling more refreshed. However, avoid exercising too close to bedtime.

• Enhanced Love Life: Increased energy, a positive self-image and better sleep can boost libido. Additionally, greater fitness levels can enhance arousal in women and improve erectile function in men.

How Much Exercise Is Recommended?

You don’t need to work out for hours every day to enjoy the benefits of exercise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking or dancing. Additionally, it's important to includemuscle-strengthening activities like weightlifting or pushups at least two days per week.

The key is to move more and sit less—every bit of movement counts towards a healthier lifestyle!

Fun Backyard Games to Play with Kids

Incorporating exercise into playtime with your kids is a fantastic way to stay active while spending quality time together. Here are some engaging outdoor games that can help burn calories and keep the whole family entertained.

1. Badminton

A fast-paced game of badminton, whether in singles or doubles, is a great way to get moving. Kids can join in, too, swinging at the shuttlecock with enthusiasm.
Estimated calorie burn: 158 calories per 30 minutes for a 155-pound person.

2. Basketball

Shooting hoops is an excellent cardio workout. Playing a full game will increase the calorie burn. Just be mindful of your jumps to avoid injury.
Estimated calorie burn: 150 calories per 30 minutes for a 155-pound person.

3. Bean Bag Toss (Cornhole)

This fun and friendly game is perfect for family competitions. Plus, if you enjoy DIY projects, you can build your own cornhole board.
Estimated calorie burn: 90 calories per 30 minutes for a 155-pound person.

4. Lawn Bowling

Engage in a relaxed yet active lawn bowling session with your kids. It’s a great way to work on precision while enjoying some light exercise.
Estimated calorie burn: 105 calories per 30 minutes for a 155-pound person.

5. Soccer

No referees or uniforms needed! Whether you’re practicing drills or simply kicking the ball around, soccer provides an excellent workout for both kids and adults.
Estimated calorie burn: 260 calories per 30 minutes for a 155-pound person (goalies burn fewer calories).

6. Tag

Tag is a classic, and it's a fantastic way for the entire family to get moving. Your kids will love it, especially if you join in on the chase!
Estimated calorie burn: 160 calories per 30 minutes for a 155-pound person.

Note: All estimated calorie burn rates are based on a 155-pound person playing for 30 minutes. Heavier individuals tend to burn more calories, while lighter individuals burn fewer, assuming the same intensity level.

FAQ: Backyard Games and Exercise

How much exercise should kids get during summer?
Children should aim for at least 1 hour of physical activity each day, according to the CDC. This can include games like soccer, tag or swimming, which are not only fun but also help develop coordination and strength.

Can backyard games help with weight loss for adults?
Yes! Engaging in outdoor games with your kids can help adults burn calories, improve cardiovascular health and boost muscle mass. It's a fun and effective way to stay active while spending quality time together.

Are backyard games suitable for all ages?
Absolutely! Many outdoor games can be adapted for different ages. For younger children, consider modifying the rules to make the games easier and more enjoyable. For adults and older kids, more intense versions can be played for a better workout.

How can I make backyard games more engaging for my kids?
Get creative by adding challenges, setting up friendly competitions or offering small rewards for achievements. Mixing up the games and introducing new ones regularly can also keep the excitement alive.

How do I avoid injuries while playing backyard games?
To prevent injuries, warm up before playing, wear appropriate footwear and always stay hydrated. Be mindful of your limits and avoid high-impact movements that could lead to strain or injury, especially if you're not accustomed to vigorous activity.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER

The information in this blog is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for consultation with a doctor or qualified healthcare professional. Consultation with a doctor or qualified healthcare practitioner is strongly advised before starting any regimen of supplementation, a change in diet or any exercise routine. Natural Organics will not be held liable for any injuries, damages, hindrances or negative effects resulting from any reliance on the information presented, nor will Natural Organics be held accountable for any inaccuracy, miscalculation or error in the scientific literature upon which the information provided is based.