The fun & frenzy of the holidays are behind us. A brand new year is ahead and it’s a popular time to focus on making changes, and setting our resolutions and goals for the months ahead. A common goal people make for the New Year is to stay active, and we’re here to help! Here are 5 easy ways for you and your children to stay active & healthy in 2012!

1. Have a fun exercise contest during the commercial breaks of your favorite family TV shows. See how many sit-ups, laps around the room, or jumping jacks you can do. Or how about a bubble chasing contest - take turns blowing or chasing and bursting as many as possible!

2. Start a new family tradition for the New Year - an after dinner walk! Set aside 20 to 30 minutes after your evening meal to take a walk around the neighborhood. Have a dog? Bring him along!

3 . There are plenty of fun outdoor activities to keep you busy during the Winter. Build a snowman, make a snow angel or try ice skating. No snow where you are? How about a game of tag or hide & seek - you’ll have a great time and keep warm while you do it!

4. Dance to the music! This is a great activity that the whole family can enjoy - who doesn’t like to move when they hear great music on the radio? Crank up the tunes and have a dance competition!

5. Get those closets all cleaned out! Another popular resolution for the New Year is to reduce clutter. Get the best of both worlds by having a closet cleaning competition. Hauling out old toys, shoes & clothes is a great way to keep active. See who can collect the largest pile for donating!

And don’t forget about upcoming programs with i9 Sports! Beyond keeping yourself fit, improving your mood and increasing your energy level, keeping active can be just plain fun. And remember….children learn by example, so it’s never too early to get them focused on staying fit & healthy. The habits they learn now can carry over into adulthood!