Just getting through the work day, the school day, and other obligations can leave you and your teenage kids feeling pressed for time. Are you both finding it hard to fit in fitness? According to the U.S. National Association for Sport and Physical Education, children should accumulate at least 60 minutes, and up to several hours, of age-appropriate physical activity on all or most days of the week. Getting your child to enjoy exercise and movement doesn’t have to be a fancy or expensive proposition.

Here are some ideas from your friends at the Champion Fitness USA to get your tweens (and maybe even yourself!) moving:

• Find a fitness facility that accommodates both of your needs and goals. Pay attention to your child’s talents and interests. Based on their likes, determine the amenities that a club should have to keep you both coming back for more. Do you both enjoy swimming? Playing basketball? Attending group exercise classes? You’ll want to understand your needs before you find a club that is a good fit for you and your teen.

• Set goals together. Whether it’s completing more push-ups, running a 5K or working out four times a week, creating goals will hold you both accountable. Being able to see your progression will also keep you and your son or daughter motivated. The key is having small successes each day on the way to the final goal.

• Track your progress. Chart your weekly exercise minutes and moves and treat yourself with a reward if goals are met. 

• Keep it FUN! Neither kids nor adults stop doing something because it is “too much FUN.” Get involved in activities that are enjoyable. Does your teen like group activities? Or more competitive activities? Try engaging them in exercises that include their friends or their favorite music.