It’s not totally surprising that this summer we focused less on the perfect beach bod and more on the couch potato party. No shame–we’re surviving, ok? However, we are aware of the importance of maintaining health to reduce risks of diseases catalyzed by a sedentary lifestyle, and of course it’s important for us to model healthy habits for our kiddos.

We could all use a little motivation to move more, and with traditional recess and gym classes moving into virtual programs for many kids, it’s even more important for the whole family to take time to get out and get active on a regular basis. So, here are some suggestions of Safe Sports to Play with Pals — from games kids can play with you or safely with other friends.

Tennis
Nothing like a net and 78 feet of court to promote social distancing! Austin PARD tennis courts recently reopened, so we think it’s time to throw the deuce to your bed, couch, bathtub, or whatever spot in your house you haven’t left in five months. A healthy dose of competition is just was the doctor ordered to beat the, “I’m so bored,” bug going around these days. The Springs Family YMCA offers specialized tennis programs for youth ages 3 and up beginning in September. 

Kayaking & Paddle Boarding 
Where do you want to be during a Texas summer? On the water, that’s where. So, lather up the SPF and spend the day on Lady Bird Lake when you rent a kayak or paddle board. Watching the cityscape drift by as you secure a sweet tan AND endure a full body burn the gym could never, now that’s multitasking. If you’re not crazy about 100+ degree heat melting you from the inside out, consider paddling closer to sunset near the Congress Bridge for a cool new way to see the bats! 

Photo via Do512 Family Staff.

Golf
Professional golfer Bubba Watson once said, “It’s about hitting the ball in the center of the club face and hitting it hard.” Well, what’s so difficult about that? If you’re keen on learning a little hand-eye coordination (or maybe you just want to expel some quarantine frustration behind a mighty swing), now just might be the perfect time to give it go. Snag some secondhand clubs off Craigslist and then tee off at one of many Austin fairways, or bring the putting greens to your own backyard with Sport Court of Austin’s home installations! Not ready to commit to 18 holes? Try Mini-Golf instead!

Indoor Rock Climbing
If you really want to impress your pandemic pod, take them to an indoor rock climbing gym to show off your impressive wall work, or just the fact that you’re totally ‘in’ on the trendy exercise. But boy, this sport is no joke! Extreme mental discipline and hardcore upper body strength will win the day in this gym. Many climbing centers offer day passes with discounted prices for seniors and children. Austin Bouldering Project is open to members, while at Austin Rock Gym, non-members can book 1.5 hours of climbing for $10. Or, reserve a day pass at Crux Climbing Center for $19 and $10 for kids five and under.

Photo via The Bryant Family’s Summer Show + Share.

Biking
You know that old bike you never ride? The one sitting in your garage collecting cobwebs and dust? Yeah, well it misses you! Show your old friend some love and get peddling around this bike friendly, nature town we live in! Keep your eye out for Austin’s “Healthy Streets” which indicate safer roads for local, outdoor activity. Your family can even take a lap at the famous 3.4 mile COTA track Tuesdays throughout the fall for Bike Night. Are you quarantining with youngsters? Check out Where to Bike with Kids in Austin before your next two-wheeled journey!

Ping-Pong
Ok so there isn’t 78 feet between you and your opponent, but experts say nine will do the trick! Ping-pong is a great way to settle debates and disagreements in the household. Is your child asking for 30 more minutes of screen time? Play them for it! Are you and your roommate disagreeing on who’s turn it is to clean the kitchen? Challenge them to The Duel of Dishes. More importantly, little games here and there can help break up a monotonous work day; and if things get heated, you might even break a sweat!

Photo by Roger Ho.

Running
Yes, you heard us correctly. Running, for some, can be the most daunting sport of all, BUT when you throw in a friend or two, its not all that bad. Try intervals, trail running, or even relays to spice up that mile. Swap funny stories if you can catch a breath on the journey, or motivate yourselves by running to a food truck (last one there pays the tab!). And if you feel someone is breaking the social distance barrier, well, run faster. 🙂

For more information about YMCA membership rates and Membership for All,
call 512-730-YMCA (9622) or visit www.AustinYMCA.org.