How to Stay Fit Camping with the Family
Posted: Sunday, January 31, 2010
by Polly Mary J. Bowen
Fun Camp Stoves
Fitness is an essential component in everyday life. Why not take the kids bikes with you while camping at your favorite campground? Not only will you enjoy the action as a family, but you are modeling the importance of fitness. Biking is an excellent cardiovascular activity and if well planned out will make an enjoyable experience. Steps to consider when you plan your fitness journey with the route, the length of the ride, rules of the road, and what to bring.
First create a safe route for the children to ride their bikes. Riding on campground property may be the first site to establish if the children are relatively young. At least you know that vehicles in the park will adhere to posted speeds. Some campgrounds have established bike routes to ride with a map to follow. Bike paths may be in the region that will be convenient. These of course would be better options and safer from traffic. Find county roads that are less traveled riding outside of the confines of the park. Check with the locals about the locality or look for a map that shows the county roads.
2. Decide on how long to ride and or destination
Next step, determine how long or select a destination to travel. Most rides of 5 miles at 10 mph can be completed in 30 minutes. What is neat about establishing a plan, such as a restaurant or ice cream treat, the focus is on the end and not on the distance gone. This might help with younger riders.
3. Rules of the Road
First, always ride with the traffic in a single-file line. Have the children ride in the middle of an adult leading and one trailing the pack. That way everyone can be accounted for. Horse play cannot be tolerated because that is how accidents happen. Always be aware of the things around you and proceed as far right when a car is approaching from behind. Finally, the most vital rule should be a helmet worn at all times while riding. Some states it is the law!
4. What to bring
Lastly, the following items may be useful on your ride. A cellular phone for emergency purposes, a bike locks if you want to stop or a snack if you choose not to stop (granola bar). Other items of interest, water to carry on your bike, money if you decide to stop, a small first aid kit that has alcohol pads and band aids, some bike tools and a fanny pack or back pack to carry everything.
The campground becomes base camp, and you want bike routes that meet the children's level of riding. The best part is that the family spends the time planning, riding and sharing the day together with physical activity being the outcome. This adds a little spice to a family bike ride normally taken in their neighborhood. One last thought before you take to the road. Before, you go on your camping trip check all bikes for tire pressure, seat height, break that works, chains oiled, and tighten any loose bolts. Do not forget to have fun and enjoy the scenery.
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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)Thanks - families need fun outdoors things to do together! And exercise that's enjoyable makes it all the better.Marijo, You are welcome. Thanks for your comment. Have a great day.
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