As the saying goes, ‘healthy body, healthy mind’…and this has never been so apt as it is now! It turns out that staying in our homes is quite a challenge, and if you have kids, then the challenge is somewhat greater. Not only are you attempting to keep them entertained and educated, but you also have to keep them active. Evidence shows that there is a positive link between physical activity and improved academic achievement – so keeping them active is an all-round win as a parent!
But aside from letting them run wild in the garden what else is there on offer that isn’t going to break the bank? Well, the great news is that these uncertain times has allowed celebrities and influencers to use their online platforms to keep the nation’s families active.
Here’s some of the best we’ve found:
‘PE With Joe’
Over 800,000 homes tune in to BodyCoachTV on YouTube every morning at 9am for a 30-minute workout from The Body Coach’s Joe Wickes. Whilst Joe says it is “designed specifically for kids, from little ones right up to secondary school” it is proving a challenge for adults too, so it really is a workout for the whole family to get involved in! Joe goes live on YouTube at 9am every weekday morning, but if that time doesn’t work for your family then you can pick up his workouts anytime of the day on his YouTube channel.
Dance classes with Oti Mabuse
Most widely known as a professional dancer on the UK’s version of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, Oti and her professional dancer husband are streaming daily themed dance classes at 11.30am for kids of all ages and their parents. Oti has choreographed easy-to-follow dance routines to some of our children’s favourite songs from films such as The Lion King, Aladdin, Frozen and High School Musical. Join her live on YouTube or Instagram, or relive the action at a time that suits you – Fun for the whole family!
Dance like no one is watching!
‘Stay at home’ football training with Robert Francis
For those young football fans that are missing their beloved game, coach Robert Francis is offering at home coaching live on Facebook and YouTube designed for boys and girls of mixed age ability. It doesn’t matter if you’re participating from your garden or your living room, all you need is a small ball and you’re set! Tune in on Tuesday and Thursday at 6pm.
Ashley Banjo’s Digital Dance Studio – 20DV
This virtual dance studio offering Diversity dance tutorials is usually a paid for subscription, however until the 1st May 2020 fans can access a full library of tutorials absolutely free of charge. Brand new tutorials are added every week from Ashley and his team and are suitable for all whether you’re somewhat of a professional or a complete beginner.
Dance classes with Dianne Buswell
Another of UK’s Strictly Come Dancing favourites, Dianne Buswell, is streaming live dance classes via Instagram. If your family has always watched enviously as the professionals dance the Jive, Charleston and the Cha, Cha, Cha, then now is your chance to learn just some of the basics. Just 10-minutes long, these lessons are a perfect reprieve in the middle of the day and don’t require a long attention span, which can often be a challenge with children!
We’ve mentioned just 5, but there are plenty of other ways to stay active online whether they be live on social media, or in the depths of YouTube. The important thing is finding something that suits you and your family’s interests and schedule.
Remember, healthy body, healthy mind!