We have all heard the terrifying statistics on the American weight problem and the increase in childhood obesity. One of the most important gifts you can give your children is a lifelong love of being active. If we start now and show them exercise can be fun, being active will be a natural part of their life as they grow into adulthood.

In Cary, we have access to some of the most amazing opportunities to give this gift to our children. How? By showing them that activity, sports and exercise are fun, not only for kids, but for the whole family. And there is a beautiful by-product: You will share these experiences with your family, increasing your family togetherness by spending this quality time with them. Here are five ways to love your family this summer by getting them active:

1. Family bike ride and picnic — We have some beautiful bike trails in Cary and the surrounding areas in all distances and levels of difficulty to suit your family. Bring along plenty of water, a blanket and a backpack full of picnic foods. Stop along the way, relax in the grass and enjoy talking and eating with your family. Here is an excellent resource on biking and bike trails in Cary: townofcary.org/depts/dsdept/P&Z/bicycleplan/bicyclemap.pdf.

2. Start a new sport or hobby together — Find a sport or activity that is new to all of you and learn it together. When kids see Mom and Dad trying their best to do something new, it inspires them to also do their best. You can laugh with each other as you share the struggles of learning. Some great sports or activity ideas that can include the whole family are martial arts, dance classes, tennis, ice skating, soccer, rollerblading and many others. The goal is to find something all of you can enjoy and learn together. There is nothing quite like the feeling of getting a “thumbs up” from your own child when you’ve done something well.

3. Walk to dinner — Why? Because it’s loads of fun and a margarita never tasted so crisp after you’ve walked a mile for it! Many neighborhoods here in Cary are within walking distance of a restaurant. Pick a lovely evening and set out early to walk to the restaurant. You will gain quality family time together as you talk during your walk as well as burn off those dessert calories before you even consume them.

4. Family adventure vacation weekend — We are fortunate to live within reach of some thrilling places for an active adventure weekend anywhere from a few minutes from Cary to West Virginia to the North Carolina mountains. If you find yourself with an open weekend, instead of spending it cleaning and doing yard work, try a fun, active mini-vacation for the whole family. Some great ideas that are within driving distance for a weekend adventure include white-water rafting, mountain biking, hiking at any skill level, horseback riding and camping. You will love this quality family time together while getting out and being active. And the kids will have a great adventure to report to their teachers on Monday.

5. Participate in a charity walk/run together — In Cary and the surrounding areas we are fortunate to have a plethora of organized charity walks throughout the year. All you have to do is find one that is meaningful to you, register and show up. Not only will you have this time with your family and get some valuable exercise, but you will be demonstrating to your children the value of giving and supporting others.