The latest episode of the Then and Now podcast dives into the evolving landscape of family fitness, a topic that resonates with many parents navigating the challenges of modern life. Leonie and Baba reflect on their own childhood experiences, contrasting them with the present where outdoor play has significantly diminished among children. Baba recalls how, as a child, fitness was an inherent part of life, stemming from playing outside, running around with friends, and engaging in spontaneous games. In stark contrast, today’s children often require structured activities to stay active, leading to a discussion about the necessity of intentional family fitness planning.

The couple shares personal anecdotes about their son’s journey through various activities, including kickboxing, and how they’ve had to adapt their approach to ensure he remains active. As they discuss the role of technology and the shift in parenting styles over generations, they emphasize the importance of not only encouraging physical activity but also being active participants themselves. The conversation shifts towards practical tips for families looking to incorporate fitness into their daily routines, highlighting the joy found in simple activities like family walks and outdoor games. This episode serves as a reminder that while times change, the essence of family bonding through physical activity remains timeless, encouraging listeners to find creative ways to stay fit together as a family.

Takeaways:

• The podcast discusses how fitness has changed over generations, emphasizing the shift in children's outdoor play.
• Parents now feel the need to actively involve their children in fitness activities like sports and martial arts.
• Accountability and community support are crucial for maintaining fitness goals as parents.
• The hosts reflect on their own childhoods, highlighting how active lifestyles were commonplace back then.
• Finding time for fitness amidst parenting responsibilities can be challenging but is essential for well-being.
• Incorporating fun and varied activities can help keep fitness enjoyable for the whole family.