Kids have lots of opportunities on holiday to run around and get plenty of exercise. Here are some ideas for healthy activities that cost little or nothing.
Physical activity is essential for your child's health. It helps them develop strong bones and muscles, maintain a healthy weight and helps promote their independence. Most of all, physical activity can be great fun for you and your children.
Wherever you live in the UK, there are plenty of opportunities for you and your family to be active in your area.
Walking, running around and playing
Make time for outings to a green space near you such as a local park, wood or nature reserve and get the kids walking, running and playing. If you want to try somewhere new, use the following websites to search for options near you.
- Green Flag parks
The Green Flag scheme recognises parks, community gardens and nature reserves that are welcoming, clean and well maintained. Go to Green Flag Award to find your nearest award-winning parks or reserves.
- Woods and forests
To find out about woods and forests near you and the activities on offer this summer, see the Woodland Trust and Forestry Commission websites.
- Accessible walks
To find walks that are accessible for people pushing buggies and for wheelchair users, see Walks with Buggies and Walks with Wheelchairs.
For more information on why walking is good for you and tips for making it fun, see the Walk4Life website.
Cycling
Strictly speaking cycling is not free, since you need a bike before you can start pedalling. However, once you have the right equipment, it's a very cheap form of exercise and one that can be enjoyed by all ages.
With more free time available in the holidays, it's a chance to go on a longer bike ride. The following websites offer suggestions for family-friendly routes.
- Sustrans
Sustrans co-ordinates the National Cycle Network, which offers thousands of miles of walking and cycle routes on traffic-free paths and quiet lanes, as well as traffic-calmed minor roads across the UK. Visit the Sustrans website to find routes near you.
- Forestry Commission
You can use the Forestry Commission’s website to search for cycle trails in woods and forests.
Cycling tips
If you're new to cycling or haven’t cycled for a long time, take a look at our guide to cycling for beginners.
You could also consider enrolling on a cycling training course. Visit Bikeability for more information on the national standard training scheme.
For more information on why cycling is great way to stay healthy, along with tips on buying a bike and staying safe, see the Bike4life website.
