Family, Running & Fitness

4 Ways The Whole Family Benefits When You Prioritize Your Health

Matt Orlando
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Let’s be honest—staying motivated in your health goals isn’t always the easiest thing. The responsibilities of being a father and supporting your family can often feel overwhelming. This is why it’s understandable that you may put your health and fitness goals to the side and put more focus on your loved ones. If you’re looking for some motivation, read below to learn about how your whole family can actually benefit when you make your health a top priority.

You are able to give back

You’ve probably heard of runner’s high before, but how does it impact the whole family? When you work out, your body releases endorphins that ultimately trigger a positive feeling within. Additionally, there are several benefits to regular exercise such as reduced stress levels, improved sleep, and a boost in self-esteem.

When you feel more positive in your daily life and naturally have more energy, it is easier to feel that you can reach your full potential as a father. Not only will you be in a better mindset and mood, but your positivity can be contagious and set a good example for taking care of yourself. Both your physical and mental health can benefit, helping you feel more well-rounded and replenished.

Save money down the road

Although there is a stigma that eating healthy foods and staying fit can be costly, there is actually great long-term value for your finances by staying in shape. Take your life insurance rates, for example. For example, your health plays a large part in determining your life insurance rates, or how much you will pay each month as a premium. When you actively stay fit and eat clean, you better your chances of fighting preventable conditions such as high cholesterol and obesity. Avoiding these costly health issues decreases your overall risk and directly impacts how much money you pay out of pocket.

Not only does combating against preventable conditions keep you healthier, but it protects you from greater medical bills down the road. Because there are health complications that can be avoided through preventative measures, don’t be afraid to spend a little more money now on new running shoes or a gym membership. This may ultimately save you money and prevent health problems down the road.

Create new bonding experiences

Although finding time to focus on your health may not always seem easy, viewing it as an opportunity to bond with your children can help shift your mindset and make it easier to fit into your schedule. Regardless of the age of your children, there are fun runs or new healthy recipes that you can try with your children.

Studies show that less than 5% of adults participate in 30 minutes of physical activity each day. Carving out intentional time with your children can help instill good habits early on, and you may even help them find a new hobby because of it. As children look up to their fathers as role models, offering encouragement to them can help you build confidence together.

Be there for big life moments

Of course, there is no way to know exactly what life will throw at you. But taking proactive steps to take care of yourself ensures that you are doing everything possible to be with your children as long as possible. Whether you want to walk your daughter down the aisle or be there for the birth of your first grandchild, finding what motivates you can help your health goals feel more worthwhile. Although it isn’t always easy to make something a habit, there are small steps you can take to incorporate these positive changes into your life.

Similarly, kicking bad habits that contribute negatively to your health is another great way to show love not only to your body, but also the loved ones in your life. Whether this means cutting back on alcohol, portion control, quitting smoking, or any other habit, you are increasing your chances to spend more years with your family.

These few points act as a reminder that although putting your health first might seem self-serving in the beginning, it actually is a great way to give back to your family in ways you might not have considered. As a father, setting an example to prioritize your health can benefit your children for years to come.

Featured photo by Caroline Hernandez on Unsplash