Going back? Create some positive changes

​Thinking about the kids going back to school?

And you going back to work?

​Worried about you (and them) going back to less movement?

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We are just BIG Kids too. Many of us are facing the same issues as the school kids: going back to work with desks, rucksacks, packed lunches and LESS movement time.
 
This could be a PERFECT TIME to make some changes, and plan more movement into the day, however old you are.


START WALKING NOW… before you and they return. Not just planning but DOING! Begin your day by walking to work – work out what terrain you will cover and what clothing you’ll need. Or start slow and go around the block, round the park – BEFORE you sit down to start work at home. 



INCLUDE THE KIDS… start a healthy walking regime for the kids too, by walking to school.  

• We know how hard it can be to get some youngsters to get out of bed and walk, so maybe starting the habit 6 weeks before school starts, will embed some healthier, family time into your day.
• It’s also nice way to meet up with their friends while socially distancing.
• You can work out IN ADVANCE how long it takes – usually less time than you  think. And where you might need to park the car if you are walking part way.
• The wee ones will learn the route and become more independent and the older ones can practice getting out of bed in time. 
• YOU also get the added bonus of fitting several walks into your day, AT THE SAME TIME as family time.
• A 20 minute walk is a great way to create down time before home, where they can be on top of you as soon as you pile out of the car; AND you’ve moved your body for a couple of miles.
• You could offer to take other kids too… build up a community connection for when you may need help and your kids may enjoy having other families to move with.
• MAKE IT FUN… Maybe you could start a Family Star Chart or a 100 Mile Club. 

CARRY THEIR BAGS… if carrying the kids’ bags all the way to school puts them off, then help!

• You’ll get some strength training in… and it is only one way.
• Talking of bags… do they need that heavy lunchbox? Do they need all those pencils? if weight is an issue then see if there is a better way.

STACK IT UP... Maybe there are business calls you can fit in on the way home, a podcast you can listen to, or a friend you can meet up and walk with. Or plan your walk around the daily shopping. 
 


SHOES… Are you ready for those tight, pointy shoes again or have your feet been able to breathe in lockdown?

• Your feet may already have changed and spread so take the opportunity to change your shoes – there are plenty of smart flat shoes that allow your feet to move more naturally.  
• Fit them at the end of the day because your feet spread.  If you do sport then fit them AFTERWARDS, when your feet are at the size according to the activity. 

REMOVE THE CLOTHING CASTS… Many people will restrict their movement according to their clothing. Have you ever tried to climb a fence in a pair of tight jeans? Raise your arms over your head in a slim fit shirt? Walk through some wet grass with sandals on?

• Find clothing that allows you more movement, in more weathers. Practice now and see what works for your walks – and perhaps your new work image.

 


FIX YOUR SEAT... Roll up a towel and place it behind your lower back in your car or at your desk. Not only will you tip your pelvis into a more neutral position you’ll align your core more easily, and your back muscles will work to hold you in place.
 


YOUR DESK... Don't just sit there - make your environment movement friendly. This, however, is a WHOLE story for another time.
 


MOVEMENT AND EDUCATION... And if you are still “teaching” at home, does everyone need to be inside and seated? Instead of dropping the kids off somewhere so you can go get some “exercise”, look for movement-based practices and get out in the park with them[1].
 


START SMALL… Even if you manage to start something once a week, you’ll have built more movement into your day. 
 
 
Of course, these are only suggestions and I appreciate that they will not be feasible for everyone. However, perhaps some food for thought. 

Feel free to share your tips too… just in case they are helpful.  

1. [1] https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Monkey-Bar-Math.

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