The best fitness equipment for kids: Fun ways to keep your family active
In today’s world of screens and gadgets, getting kids off the couch and moving can be a challenge. But keeping children active is essential for their physical health, mental well-being, and development. So, why not make fitness fun for the whole family? With the right fitness equipment, you can turn exercise into an exciting activity that everyone will enjoy—kids included!
Here’s a look at some of the best fitness equipment for kids that can help keep your little ones engaged, energised, and eager to stay active.
1. Mini trampoline: Bounce their way to fitness
One of the easiest ways to get kids moving is by adding some bounce to their day! A mini trampoline (or rebounder) is a fantastic piece of equipment for kids. Not only does it give them a fun outlet for burning energy, but it also helps improve balance, coordination, and cardiovascular fitness.
Why it’s great: Bouncing on a trampoline is exciting for kids, and it’s a low-impact exercise that’s gentle on joints. Set it up in the backyard or even indoors, and let them jump to their heart’s content.
Pro tip: Get involved and join the bouncing fun! Trampolines are a great way for parents to sneak in some cardio too.
2. Hula hoops: Whirl into fitness fun
Hula hoops aren’t just for recess anymore! A hula hoop can be a surprisingly effective tool for building core strength and improving coordination. And for kids, it’s simply a blast.
Why it’s great: Hula hooping feels like play, but it engages muscles and gets the heart pumping. Plus, it’s easy to take a few hoops to the park or play with them in the yard.
Pro Tip: Get a weighted hula hoop if your child is a little older and wants more of a challenge. It’s also a great piece of equipment for parents to enjoy some fun exercise!
3. Skipping rope: Classic cardio for kids
A skipping rope may be small, but it packs a serious fitness punch. Skipping is excellent for cardiovascular health, coordination, and endurance—and kids love the rhythm and challenge of mastering different jump techniques.
Why it’s great: It’s affordable, portable, and perfect for all ages. Whether it’s basic skipping or learning cool tricks, a skipping rope can keep kids engaged for hours.
Pro Tip: Make it a family challenge! Set skipping rope goals and see who can jump the most times in a row. You can even introduce fun games like double Dutch to get everyone involved.
4. Yoga mats: Stretch and relax
Kids aren’t always known for sitting still, but yoga can actually be a great way to help them unwind while staying active. A yoga mat allows children to practice balance, flexibility, and mindfulness in a space that’s just for them.
Why it’s great: Yoga encourages physical and mental wellness. It’s not just about stretching; it teaches kids to focus and breathe, helping them manage stress and develop better body awareness.
Pro Tip: Practice yoga as a family! There are tons of kid-friendly yoga videos and apps that can guide you through fun, themed yoga adventures.
5. Balance boards: Improve coordination and core strength
A balance board is an excellent tool for building core strength and improving coordination, all while feeling like a game. Whether they’re rocking back and forth or trying to balance longer, kids will love the challenge of keeping steady.
Why it’s great: Balance boards engage muscles in a unique way and can be used indoors year-round. They’re ideal for kids who need a bit of a physical challenge and enjoy testing their limits.
Pro Tip: Balance boards are great for the whole family. Parents can use them for core workouts or to improve stability while the kids test their balancing skills.
6. Agility Ladders: Speed and coordination training
Agility ladders aren’t just for athletes—they’re great for kids too! This simple piece of equipment is laid out on the ground, and kids can run, hop, or skip through the rungs to improve speed, coordination, and agility.
Why it’s great: It’s an active game that feels like a challenge. Kids can create different routines, race each other, or try new patterns, making it an excellent workout for both mind and body.
Pro Tip: Make it part of a larger obstacle course in your backyard or park. Combine it with jumping, crawling, and balancing activities to keep things exciting!
7. Foam Roller: A fun way to roll out tension
A foam roller might seem like an adult’s tool for muscle recovery, but kids love rolling around on them too! It’s great for improving flexibility, and using a foam roller can feel like a fun, wobbly adventure for little ones.
Why it’s great: Rolling on a foam roller helps stretch and massage muscles, aiding in recovery after sports or active play. It’s also a calming way for kids to wind down after a busy day.
Pro Tip: Use foam rollers together as part of a stretching routine. It’s a great way for the whole family to loosen up, especially after a long day of activities.
8. Obstacle courses: Create adventure at home
Why not turn your back garden into a playground? Obstacle courses are fantastic for encouraging kids to run, jump, crawl, and climb in a fun, adventurous setting. Include items such as hoops, ropes, balls and other gear to build endless combinations of courses.
Why it’s great: It’s a fantastic way to challenge your kids’ coordination, speed, and creativity while giving them a full-body workout. And with the ability to rearrange the course, there’s no limit to the fun!
Pro Tip: Create family obstacle course challenges where everyone takes turns running the course. The kids will love competing with mum and dad to see who can complete it the fastest!
Making Family Fitness Fun
Keeping your kids active doesn’t have to be a chore. With these fun and engaging pieces of fitness equipment, you can turn exercise into an exciting activity that the whole family can enjoy together. Whether you’re bouncing on a trampoline, mastering the hula hoop, or tackling an obstacle course, staying fit becomes less about working out and more about having fun.
Remember: The best way to keep kids engaged is to join in! When they see you participating and having fun, they’ll be more motivated to stay active, and family fitness time will become something everyone looks forward to.
Ready to gear up for family fitness fun? Check out our wide range of fitness equipment and start creating your next active adventure today!