Movement is Movement: Make It Fun Like Kids Do

As I’ve gotten older, my perspective on movement has changed. I used to think of exercise as something I had to do—lifting weights, running, following a structured plan. But now, as a parent, I see movement differently. It doesn’t have to be a rigid routine or something you check off a list. Instead, I try to approach it the way kids do: as play.

Exercise Should Feel Like Play

Kids don’t think about working out. They just move because it’s fun. They run, jump, climb, and spin around simply because they feel like it. And somewhere along the way, we lose that mindset. We start thinking of exercise as a chore, something we have to do instead of something we get to do. But what if we approached movement with the same playful spirit?

I still believe in lifting weights, building strength, and challenging the body. But I’ve realized that the best way to stay consistent is to make it enjoyable. If you like lifting, then lift. If you enjoy skateboarding, surfing, or biking, do that. If sprinting feels good, run. The key isn’t forcing yourself into a strict routine—it’s finding movement that excites you.

The Importance of Just Moving

Not every workout needs to be perfect or planned. Life as a parent is busy, and some days, there’s no time for an hour-long gym session. But that doesn’t mean movement has to stop. Playing outside with my kids, skating for a few minutes, or even taking an extra walk all add up. Movement is movement, and it all benefits your body.

Make It Fun, Make It Yours

Instead of dreading exercise, think of it as your time to play. Move in ways that make you feel good. Explore different activities. Pick up a skateboard, climb something, or try a new lift in the gym. When movement is fun, it becomes something you look forward to—not just another task on the to-do list.

At the end of the day, fitness isn’t about suffering through workouts you hate. It’s about staying active, having fun, and setting an example for your kids. So go play—your body will thank you for it.