Perhaps you’re an avid sports fan who can hardly sit on the bleacher as you get caught in the euphoria of an exciting match. Or maybe you’re a fitness enthusiast who knows that engaging in sports improves body coordination and develops cognitive and social skills. Regardless of who you are, wouldn’t it be more interesting to share your love for sports with your family members?
Physical activity is absolutely necessary in keeping one’s body healthy. Plus, you can make your physical activity fun while spending time with your loved ones. However, it will be difficult if you have family members who aren’t predisposed to sports.
If you’re thinking along these lines, hey, there’s a way. You’re not alone in this situation. Here are some tips you may want to consider to get family members interested in sports:
Expose Them To The Sports World
Introducing your family to the wonderful world of sports may spark interest in them. Attending a sports event together can be a good start. For instance, you can take one of your siblings with you to a basketball game. If you’re a parent, you can get started this AFL season to have a good time with your kids. The happier the experience, the more likely your kid would want to take up the sport.
Watching sports movies at home may be a fun way to pique your family’s interest as well. Grab some popcorn, and enjoy the show. You may choose the archetypal zero hero movie about a football player underdog who made the winning goal. Or try switching to stories about sportsmanship and friendships in unlikely circumstances.
Get Creative
Cultivating a culture of sports starts at home. Family members have different personalities and interests. That’s why in trying to get them interested in sports, carefully see the activities they prefer. For some parents, their sons show interest in ball games, so it would be a great opportunity to let the kids choose what they like and add your twist to it. For example, you can have a mini basketball ring. See who can get more balls into the basket.
Another suggestion is to organise a friendly running competition like who’s going to get to the bathroom first. Make it a little silly and a little fun. Play is such a magical moment for the family, especially for the younger members.
Moreover, you can factor in the age of the family members and create a game appropriate for them. Here are some examples:
- For ages 3 to 5: A team sport, like soccer and basketball, will be fun for preschoolers as long as you tone down your expectations. Also, you may introduce them to water safety and swimming.
- For ages 6 to 8. Team sports are still a good idea. Around this age, most kids can do balance so add in gymnastics and biking.
- For Ages 9 to 11. You can have team sports with a bit of competition. A short triathlon will be good for their body coordination but remind them to stay hydrated.
- For ages 12 to 14. Muscle-building sports may be of interest. Teach them some push-ups and light weightlifting. If they’re in puberty, avoid heavy weights that may injure their growing bones.
- Age 15 and older. At this age, people love endurance events like marathons and triathlons. It’ll be fun to join a fun run!
Set A Good Example
One of the most effective strategies to get your family involved in sports is to act as an active role model. If you’re a parent, this is specifically for you.
Parents who participate in sports and find it enjoyable will pass this on to their children. Because actions speak louder than words, those who take care of their physical health and well-being have a better chance of encouraging their children.
Generally, parents and guardians who model a positive and healthy lifestyle often impact their children’s choices and behavior. Children emulate adults in their lives. What children watch their parents do has a greater impact on them than what their parents say.
Invite Some Friends
People love playing games with their friends, and inviting a bunch of friends over to play is a great way to foster passion for a sport. Consider how you can help to make your home a nice location for an activity. Playing sports becomes meaningful and unforgettable when your home serves as a gathering spot.
A wide yard will be a good site for rugby, cricket or football. If you live near a forest, why not try hiking? Or you can turn your driveway into a netball court sometimes. Invite your sibling’s friend. Create a team of your own and enjoy.
The Secret Is Encouragement
When it comes to getting your family engaged in sports, your job is to make it pleasurable. Follow the steps outlined here, and see the wonders these will do to your family.
