In the bustling city of Edmonton, amidst the urban landscape and vibrant culture, lies a wonderful opportunity for families to come together and embrace a healthy lifestyle through fitness activities. Engaging in physical activities as a family not only promotes overall well-being but also strengthens the bonds between loved ones. Fortunately, Edmonton offers a plethora of family fitness activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or indoor fun, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city.

Exploring the River Valley

Edmonton’s iconic River Valley, the largest urban park in North America, is a paradise for families seeking outdoor fitness activities. With over 160 kilometers of trails winding along the North Saskatchewan River, it offers an array of options for walking, cycling, rollerblading, or jogging. Families can enjoy picnics, play sports, or simply relish the breathtaking views while burning calories and strengthening muscles. Don’t forget to check out various parks within the valley, such as Rundle Park with its family-friendly amenities, or Emily Murphy Park for a splash in the river during the warmer months.

Pedaling Fun with Bike Tours

Cycling is an excellent family activity that not only improves cardiovascular health but also allows you to explore Edmonton’s neighborhoods and attractions. Numerous bike tour operators offer guided tours tailored to different age groups and fitness levels. From historical tours through Old Strathcona to leisurely rides around the city’s scenic spots, biking as a family fosters a sense of adventure and promotes an eco-friendly approach to transportation.

Indoor Adventure at Recreational Centers

Edmonton is well-equipped with indoor recreational centers that provide an ideal retreat for families during colder months. Facilities like the Terwillegar Community Recreation Centre and the Clareview Community Recreation Centre offer an array of indoor activities suitable for all ages. Enjoy swimming in heated pools, join family-friendly fitness classes like Zumba or yoga, or engage in friendly competition with various sports options like basketball, badminton, and indoor soccer.

Nature Walks in City Parks

In addition to the River Valley, Edmonton boasts an abundance of city parks that provide excellent opportunities for family fitness activities. Hawrelak Park, for instance, offers paved walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground, making it perfect for a day of family fun in the outdoors. Other beautiful parks like William Hawrelak Park and Whitemud Park invite families to immerse themselves in nature, breathe in fresh air, and indulge in invigorating walks or light jogs.

Family-Friendly Yoga Sessions

Yoga is a wonderful way to promote mindfulness, flexibility, and relaxation within the family unit. Several studios and community centers in Edmonton host family-oriented yoga sessions that cater to both parents and children. Practicing yoga together not only enhances physical health but also fosters emotional connections and a sense of tranquility amid the bustling city life.

There are tons of traditional activities for the kids to burn off some of that pent up energy, but what if your kids are looking for something different? Here are our top 5 off the wall ideas for fitness fun this spring.

Wall-Climbing: We often joke that the kids make us climb the walls… It’s only fair for them to get a chance to climb the walls too! A course that teaches the basics is just the ticket! At Rock Jungle Fitness, they offer programs for 5-17 year olds in their Cubs, Jaguars and Tigers classes. The cubs program designed for 5-8 year olds builds fundamental climbing skills through fun games and activities. Jaguars is their introductory program and runs once a week for 9-18 year olds focusing on the basics of climbing. Tigers is their developmental program and runs twice a week. Athletes in the Tigers program will refine the skills learned in the Jaguars program and start to learn and practice athletic training principles.

Junior Roller Derby:  You don’t have to be a skater to join the Greater Edmonton Junior Roller Derby league! Beginners are invited to check out the co-ed league with light and full contact teams…but everyone starts no contact! Their mission is to empower youth and build their confidence so they can embrace their individualism in a fun, safe and respectful environment. Skaters need a mouth guard, helmet, good knee and elbow pads, wrist guards, and or course, roller skates!

Parkour: My son heads to the park in the summer and immediately goes to work climbing things, jumping over obstacles and doing things that make me hold my breath a bit when I see the moves he attempts. What if you could get your kid doing some safe but cool parkour moves instead of sitting around passively watching YouTube videos about it? FlyFree Movement operates out of three locations in the Capital region offering classes based on age (8-10, 11-15 and 16+) to ensure that students are safely challenged to try new things! The only gear required is a good pair of indoor shoes and appropriate workout

Surfing: YEG may be a long way from the beach, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get the benefits of riding the waves! Check out the Tsunami Club on the Flow Rider indoor surf machine at the World Waterpark in West Edmonton Mall, with drop in hours on Monday and Wednesday evenings. Riders under 18 need parental permission and have to be 107 cm tall to bodyboard, and 122 cm to flowride. Come in comfortable workout wear, and be ready to feel muscles you didn’t know you had.

In Edmonton, family fitness activities are not only abundant but also diverse, catering to various interests and age groups. From exploring the picturesque River Valley to pedaling through guided bike tours, or enjoying indoor fun in recreational centers, the city offers numerous opportunities to bond, stay active, and lead a healthy lifestyle as a family. Embracing fitness together not only sets an excellent example for children but also strengthens the family’s emotional bonds, making Edmonton a prime destination for families seeking to create lasting memories through health and wellness. So, why wait? Gather your loved ones, put on your sneakers, and embark on an exciting journey towards family fitness in the vibrant city of Edmonton.