More people older than 50 are staying active and including fitness as part of their routine. Take time this fall to embrace the family by going for a walk or hitting the bike path and cycling together. Maybe go on an all-in-the-family bike ride or one of these activities:
_ Experience nature
Enjoy a nature trail, take some breaks to see the sights, take selfies from a park bench or just enjoy the company.
Another option would be to pedal along a rural path. About 57 percent of Americans younger than 35 own a bike that was passed down from a family member. And 67 percent of Americans say riding with their family and friends is what they miss most about their childhood, according to the data researchers at Schwinn Fitness.
_ Put a puzzle together
Mental exercise counts. Puzzles are a great way to engage in conversation among kids and adults. If you aren't puzzle people, you can learn a card game or play chess together.
Hours also can pass quickly at home around a family Monopoly game challenge.
_ Hit the pool
Great for arthritic joints, swimming also is a well-rounded exercise for all ages. You'll have to head indoors now that it's fall, one option is to go to a YMCA facility for a family swim.
Once you've finished your laps, you can just relax in the water or find another center activity.
_ Take turns at the stove
Share your favorite childhood meal and make it with the grands. This also gives you a chance to dig out old recipe books to find choices once made by great-grandparents or to show kids what their parents liked most as children.
Fall's cooler temperatures can invite family time to make zucchini bread or chocolate chip cookies. After indulging in tastes and memories, make sure to walk off those calories.
