The Power of Shared Fitness in Parenting
I’m definitely no expert in raising kids, but one lesson has stood out over the years with my two: kids follow examples far more powerfully than they follow instructions. Words are one thing, but actions resonate on a whole other level, especially when it comes to things like staying active and making healthy choices.
Our children may not understand that we’re tired after a long day of work. All they see is us sitting and staring at screens. Without realizing it, sedentary screen time becomes the norm, and it’s what they often adopt as their default behavior too. The same goes for food. They don’t see the long list of to-dos or the exhaustion that makes grabbing fast food tempting—they only see what’s on the plate. Over time, this becomes their baseline for what “normal eating” looks like.
At Penance Gym, I’ve been fortunate to witness families who flip that script. Fitness becomes something shared, not just told. These are the parents who are active alongside their kids and make it a point to choose nutrient-dense, whole foods over quick, processed options. And let me tell you, it’s a win-win on all fronts.
The kids work harder because they want to impress their parents and feel that moment of pride that comes from putting in their best effort. They see their parents making better choices—pushing through a workout, opting for grilled chicken and veggies instead of pizza—and it inspires them to make healthier decisions too. At the same time, the parents feel a sense of responsibility. They want to maintain their kids’ respect by living out the habits they’re teaching. It’s about showing that health isn’t just a set of rules; it’s a lifestyle.
I’ve seen firsthand how this shared effort strengthens family bonds. When a parent and child push through a tough workout or sit down together for a balanced, home-cooked meal, they’re building trust, patience, and mutual respect. It’s about more than just physical health—these are the moments that stick with them for life.
On a personal note, I’ve noticed a marked difference in the effort my son Dorian started putting into his workouts and food choices after we began training and eating with intention together. He saw my commitment to both areas, and I saw his, and it inspired us both to show up a little stronger each time. That is only compounded now that my daughter, Devon, has joined in on the fun.
If you’re not taking the opportunity to work out with your daughters and sons—and to model better food choices—you’re missing out on something powerful. Shared struggle and shared meals have a unique way of bringing people closer. Your kids will follow where you go—why not lead them down a path of strength, resilience, and health?