Move more, laugh louder: celebrating International Day of Families

Did you know 15 May is International Day of Families?

Fitness expert Josh Kristenson reckons it’s the perfect excuse to spend time with your favourite people, share a laugh, and sneak in a bit of movement while you’re at it.

“Family comes in all shapes and sizes — grandkids, adult kids, chosen family, neighbours who feel like kin,” he says. “Whoever you’ve got in your corner, moving your body together is one of the easiest ways to feel good, stay connected and keep the blood pumping.

“No gym gear or complicated routines needed!”

Take a walk, make a memory

Walking might be simple, but it’s seriously underrated, says Josh.

“It’s easy, free, and better with company,” he says. “Head out for a stroll with a grandchild and turn it into a game — count how many kookaburras you can spot, race to the next letterbox, or chat about your favourite old-school snacks.

“If your loved ones live further away, tee up a ‘walk and talk’ call. You walk, they walk, and you both get a bit of sunshine and a good natter. Distance? What distance?”

Dance like no one’s watching (especially the grandkids)

Turn up the tunes — whether it’s Elvis, ABBA or something a bit more modern — and get your groove on in the kitchen.

“Show the grandkids your best twist or let them teach you their latest moves,” says Josh. “It doesn’t matter what it looks like — if you’re grooving, you’re moving. Ten minutes of dancing feels more like play than exercise, and it’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.”

Turn the everyday into exercise

Who says you need a gym for a workout?

“Toss a ball, pull a few weeds, or have a chair-stand challenge — who can go from sitting to standing the most times in 30 seconds?” Josh says. “These simple moves build balance and strength without breaking a sweat, and they show younger family members that staying active can be fun at any age.”

Cook, chop and chat

Cooking with someone you love? That’s movement with meaning.

“Chop veggies, stir a pot, or do a little dance while the biscuits bake,” says Josh. “Share old recipes, swap stories and soak up the rhythm of doing something together. It’s not just about the food — it’s about the connection.”

Try something new this International Day of Families

“Grab a picnic rug and a frisbee, and head to the backyard or the local park,” says Josh. “Try a bit of stretching during ad breaks. Or snap some silly selfies in your best yoga poses — and see who nails the warrior pose!”

He says the goal isn’t perfection — it’s about having a go, sharing a laugh and making memories together.

At the end of the day, it’s the little things that matter — the chats, the chuckles and the time spent side by side.

“Moving with the people you love isn’t just good for your body — it fills your cup,” says Josh.

“So, this 15 May, give your body (and your heart) a reason to celebrate. Call up the family, step outside, turn up the music — and make a memory or two while you’re at it.”