ST. LOUIS - How many of your New Year’s resolutions are to be more active?
Well, you probably know it's a lot easier to stick to your goals when you have a workout partner, or family, holding you accountable.
Which is exactly how the Schindewolf family stays active and healthy. They workout and take part in activities at the Carondelet YMCA in Holly Hills.
Ben Schindewolf is a stay at home dad to 5-year-old Victoria and 4-year-old Auggie. Their family routine is pretty hectic and can be somewhat of a workout. While mom Jessica is at work as a physician at Barnes, dad is finding ways to get the kids moving.
The kids have plenty of programs to get involved in at the YMCA, giving dad some time for himself.
"You can worry about whatever you want and the next thing you know you're like man I’ve been on this thing for 30 minutes this is crazy," laughed Ben as he explained burning off his stress on the cardio equipment. The gym is where he clears his mind and makes his grocery lists.
"I go to Costco often times on a Wednesday," smiled Ben.
If the kids aren't at the gym, in classes or programs, mom says she gets creative with their activity.
Jessica explained, "If they wanted a treat we had to walk to Schnucks to get it. So, it’s about a mile and a half to Schnucks from our house so it’s a three mile roundtrip."
Jennie Alberts is Senior Program Director at the YMCA.
"It's habit forming right? So, the family that plays together stays together. Building those habits early on is very crucial so you can maintain them later in life," explained Alberts.
She says families looking to get fit together should start small.
"You don't have to go full force and be expected to go from couch to 5k in a day. They can play games at home. They can go outside and enjoy nature. You can go for a walk around the block. You can be active in the grocery store," Alberts said.
The options are endless. You just have to stick with it, together.
