Tips for Taking a Family Walk

By: Scottsdale Weight Loss Center
Published: June 6, 2010
Family enjoying an autumn walk.

Walking has been called the perfect exercise, mainly because it’s something that just about anyone can do with little or no training or financial investment. It’s a simple way to get yourself in shape. But walking can also be a great way to help your entire family become more physically active and, if neeeded, lose weight. Regular walks with the family can improve everyone’s health while allowing you to spend more time together. Follow these tips to enhance the walking experience for everyone in the family.

3 Tips for Taking a Family Walk

  • Play “I Spy.” This is a great way to get everyone in the family connected and keep kids interested for the duration of your workout. Make a list of objects to look out for while walking, such as a red mailbox, a blue car, or specific type of plant. You may want to consider where you’ll be walking when making the list. Give the list to each member of the family and see who can “spy” the most things on the list during your walk.
  • Designate “Quiet Time.” Walking can help you focus your mind, gain clarity, and generate new ideas. But getting quiet time on a walk with kids can be a challenge. To help, set aside a specific amount of time as “quiet time.” Ask a question of the day and set a timer, and tell everyone they have to wait until the end of Quiet Time to answer. This is a great way to teach your kids how to practice quiet thinking.
  • Give everyone a pedometer. These are inexpensive gadgets used to count the steps you take. Giving one to everyone in the family may encourage a little friendly competition and have your kids looking for excuses to be more active. It can also help you set goals for each walk. For example, you may all decide that you’ll keep walking until you’ve taken 2,000 steps, which is generally equivalent to a mile.

Remember, experts agree that you need to move at a moderate pace for at least 20 minutes to get the most benefit from walking. Using these tips on family walks can make it easier for you to walk quickly enough and for long enough to get the exercise you need.

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Andi Kate profile picture
Andi K
3 days ago
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I landed at Scottsdale Weight Loss 13 years ago and lost 50 pounds….regained 10 and then lost them again, plus another 20. It is a great program, and all the professionals are amazing and caring.
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Mj W
9 days ago
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SWL has been a God send to me! Dr. Guzman & staff especially Lilia & Bianca! They’re so supportive & professional I have lost approx 50 pounds over the year at my own pace.
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Donna L
11 days ago
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Great place 30 lbs.and counting thank you And now it is over 40 lbs. and counting thank you great job
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John J
27 days ago
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I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr Robert Ziltzer! He helped me reach my ideal weight and more importantly maintain it for over 2 years. He has also helped me keep my blood pressure exactly where my internist wanted it. Dr Ziltzer is not only exceptional in weight management but also a truly gifted internet’s. His knowledge, kindness, and dedication are remarkable. I am deeply grateful for his care and recommend him whole heartedly!
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Merle S
34 days ago
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The staff at the Phoenix office are great! My experience with Dr deGuzman has been wonderful. Miriam has always been very helpful and makes the office visits pleasant and personal. The medical assistants have always been professional and great to help meet my goals.
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Paula S
37 days ago
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I really felt comfortable with Kristen at my initial appointment. Everyone at the center was caring and friendly, from Bianca, at the front desk, to Lily, who is the MA. Kristen listened to my frustrations and prior disappointments about what has not worked, and is confident that she can help me achieve my goals of weight loss. I am looking forward and excited to see the success I will attain.
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Joyce K
44 days ago
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My weight loss is going well because of Scottsdale Weight Loss Center. I couldn’t do it without them
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Robert D
46 days ago
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Amazing staff and great program! Feeling great!
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Brian H
48 days ago
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I'd lost 20 pounds on my own and struggled to keep it off. I decided GLP-1 meds were the next step in losing more and keeping it off. I wanted a medical doctor supervised program and chose SWLC. I am so very glad I did! The team in Glendale is so supportive and kind; and when I feel discouraged, they pick me up with positive energy and input. They really do a great job with encouragement all the time. 6 weeks in I've lost 17 pounds, and am approaching weight loss with a very new perspective. Also knowing that when I reach my target goal, they'll be there through maintenance and beyond is encouraging as well. Good to not feel alone on this journey.
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Stephanie P
62 days ago
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They have encouraged and been there through every tough situation. Definitely the team to lean on.
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Theresa G
67 days ago
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Everyone is pretty amazing but Kim the NP is absolutely one of the best practitioners I’ve ever met !
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Mary K
68 days ago
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