There is a constant struggle in my family to get the youngsters out of the house.  The TV and computer offer significant competition.  And to be completely honest, my own exhaustion after a long day at the office can lead me to be less than forceful in suggesting a trip outside.

One successful approach I have found to getting the potatoes off the couch is tying an outdoor activity into one of their favorite indoor pass times.  I’ve written before about my love for Ninja Warrior.  As much as I enjoy watching it on TV, it does nothing to slim down my love handles.  When I suggest a trip to the park, I generally get some shrugs and “Ummm, maybe later”s.  But if I suggest we go try out our own Ninja Warrior course at the park, well, the boys can’t get dressed and ready to go fast enough.

Whatever the kids are interested in, you can find a corresponding outdoor activity if you look hard enough.  Of course, it isn’t just the kids that need some incentive sometimes to get off the couch and get outside.  I know that I’ve found it easier to motivate myself to get out and get some exercise if I’m looking forward to some ‘alone time’ to listen to a new album I’ve recently downloaded to my iPod.  Or if I need to clear my head to come up with some ideas to meet a writing deadline.

If you’re a regular reader of this site, you are a person who loves to spend time outdoors.  If you’re like me, however, you sometimes find yourself sacrificing your outdoor activities just to try to keep up with the hectic pace of life.  When you find yourself in that situation, give yourself an incentive to make the time you need to get outside and do the things you enjoy.

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