In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for family members to drift into their own routines, spending more time on screens than interacting with each other. One way to reconnect, boost health, and make lasting memories is by doing fitness activities together. Whether it’s a weekend hike, a family bike excursion, or a friendly game of soccer, exercising together can have some incredible benefits for both individuals and the family as a whole. 

First, fitness brings families closer. It creates a shared goal and experience, helping family members bond. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a run or celebrating a personal fitness milestone, there’s something about working toward a common goal that strengthens relationships. Plus, it’s a fun way to create lasting memories and traditions that everyone can look back on.

It also encourages healthy habits. When kids see their parents prioritizing fitness, they’re more likely to adopt those habits themselves. Physical activity becomes a natural part of family life, rather than something that feels like a chore. This can set up lifelong habits for both adults and kids, improving overall well-being.

Finally, working out together helps with motivation. It’s easier to stick to a fitness routine when you have support. The positive reinforcement from family members can help push everyone to stay committed, and it’s often more enjoyable when you’re doing it together. Whether it's making each other laugh during a challenging workout or celebrating a fitness milestone, the encouragement is priceless.

Staying motivated can be particularly difficult as the days become darker and the weather less enticing for outdoor activities. This has become a big concern for me in regards to my 84 year old father. It’s cold, he doesn’t have much to do in the garden right now and he sits mostly by himself in isolation all day long. We all know this isn’t good for our mental health. In fact he becomes downright grumpy. 

This winter I wanted to shake things up. My dad has been athletic his whole life. He talks about his days at Byng on the basketball team, or his time playing soccer. His fondest memories were playing with the Schooners Hockey team and traveling to the Snoopy tournaments in the summer months with my mom. 

In the fall of 2019 a week before he planned to return to the Over 80 hockey team, he had a stroke. Though not severe, this followed by the pandemic caused a ripple effect with his fitness level. He has wanted to return to skating before hanging up his gear for good, so he could go out on his own terms. I took advantage of this and said, “hey dad, I want to skate weekly at Kerrisdale, it’s good exercise, why don’t you come with me”. Thus began the weekly dates with my dad at the ice rink. For 11 weeks now, we go every week during public skating. For safety reasons he gears up from top to bottom, with pants, shin/knee guards, elbow pads and a helmet. He has struggled to retrain his brain on how to move. He has felt discouraged and wants to just skate like he used to when he played.  A couple of weeks ago he went out there and took off faster than he had been skating. He said he felt great. He could do some crossovers, better stopping and even a little bit of backwards work. The smile on his face was priceless. I asked him as we were finishing up, want to race! 

Not every session ends that strong but every session ends with us chatting and feeling good about our time on the ice together. He’s been skating and playing hockey at Kerrisdale since he was 10 years old and I still keep hearing new stories about his life. 

I have enjoyed my own journey back on the ice, but it’s even cooler doing it with my dad. He says he comes skating so I don’t have to go alone. He’s doing it for me. The reasons don’t really matter but I do see a decrease on the grumpy meter. I can tell he feels better on skating days. Now I just need to get a stick and puck in his hand. 

No matter the age of your children or your parents, being able to do fitness activities with each other is precious. I know after my father has gone, these memories will sit close to my heart. 

Sincerely,

OG

Empower Family Fitness Opportunities

Next Up:  

Our 12 Days of Xmas event is a community and family event. For those members who are interested in teaming up together for this fun workout, you will be able to reserve your spot starting this Saturday Dec 7.  

This event is partnered with the Harbourside Youth Foundation. All donations will go towards supporting economically disadvantaged youth athletes. Our Assistant Coach Finn has championed this cause and I encourage you all to watch the video for more information. 

Coming in January! 

New Session of Family Fit. Start your family fitness journey today. Contact Coach Barb for more information. [email protected]

Thursday Workout

3 rounds for time of:
10 hang power cleans
1-minute hang from the pull-up bar
10 push jerks
1-minute handstand hold
♀ 105 lb
♂ 155 lb