According to GirlsHealth.gov, girls aged nine to 18 should exercise 60 minutes per day. We all know how long 60 minutes can seem when trying to do something new, challenging and physical - so why not take this advice for yourself and make it a reason to exercise with your niece? After all, the government recommends that young girls exercise that long each day, so it is your responsibility as an Aunt to ensure they reach that goal at least once a week. What’s more is that being a mentor and teacher is great motivation to get you in shape, too.

We all know that exercise and fitness can be boring – so as a trainer, I always suggest working out with a partner. Exercising with your niece will ensure you have your workout buddy and it will also give you both priceless bonding time together. The accountability to each other will ensure that you stick to your new workout plan and a younger partner may push you to work harder. 

Your 60 minutes of exercise does not have to consist of conventional workouts; use your imagination and have fun. In fact, you can even change it up each week: go for a bike ride; take a hike in the woods; play a game of tennis; go surfing - the choices are endless. Of course there is always a place for good old strength and cardio training in any exercise plan, so be sure to check out a few fitness classes together, too. If none are available in your area, there are plenty of age-appropriate exercise videos for you to do together.

The most important and challenging thing with getting the exercise in is to plan for it and follow through with the plan. Make a date with your niece, select the activity and go for it! You will find that exercise does not always mean going to the gym, and keeping fit can be a lot of fun. Best of all, you may change the life of a girl while you are at it too; lead by example and teach her being fit is cool.

Becky Wenner, owner of Becky's Fitness Company, is a proud Aunt of five.

Published: October 4, 2010