No Time for the Gym? Go Out and Play

Who wouldn't want to hit a chaise lounge, sip a fruity drink, and kick back while the kids run around? But don't get too comfortable. You can burn major calories just by playing outside as a family. "Even short bursts of exercise can help you lose weight and lower your blood pressure and cholesterol," says Stephen Daniels, MD, PhD, spokesperson for the American Heart Association. Even better, if you're active, your kids will want to follow your lead. Here are 7 fun ways to get started today. (All calorie counts based on a 135-pound woman per 1/2 hour of activity.)

Kicking around the soccer ball will zap 284 calories.

Who knew a casual Frisbee toss could burn 122 calories?

For major waistline whittling, slap on those skates -- in-line skating will deplete 506 calories!

Break out the jump rope to slash 405 calories in 30 minutes.

Grab your Little Leaguer and start pitching, hitting, and running to burn 243 calories.

Explore your town (or hit up the trails at a local park) by bike -- you'll ride away with 324 fewer calories.

A good, old-fashioned toddler chase burns a surprising 203 calories.

Copyright © 2007. Reprinted with permission from the August 2007 issue of Parents magazine.