Rethinking Fitness: From the Sidelines to Center Stage

By Cesar Rolon

Too often, parents and elders cheer on from the bleachers while the kids run the field. But what if everyone played together?

What if fitness was as central to family bonding as Sunday dinners or holiday fiestas?

“My daughter joined a dance team, and I realized I could join the adult class at the same time,” says Laura, a mom from Phoenix. “Now it’s something we do together, and it’s brought us closer.”

Creating family-based fitness doesn’t just build health—it builds connection, routine, and shared joy.

Cultural Connection Through Movement

When fitness feels fun, familiar, and culturally relevant, Latino families are more likely to participate. That means offering programs that:

• Integrate Latin rhythms—like salsa, bachata, cumbia, or reggaetón—into dance fitness classes like Zumba

• Offer school-based and park soccer leagues that encourage parents to join in as coaches or participants

• Provide family-friendly walking groups that explore local neighborhoods and parks

• Embrace intergenerational movement—from low-impact chair yoga for seniors to stroller walks for new moms

  
  

Solutions That Work in Latino Communities

Zumba & Latin Dance Classes

These culturally engaging formats are accessible and welcoming to all ages—and often offered at local churches, schools, and community centers. Classes in Spanish and English help remove language barriers.

Family Soccer Leagues

Programs that invite entire families to practice and play together build health while celebrating one of the most beloved sports in Latino culture. Cities across the U.S. have started “padres e hijos” (parents and kids) tournaments and clinics.

🏃🏽‍♀️ Workplace Wellness Challenges

Employers with large Latino workforces can implement bilingual wellness campaigns with prizes for steps walked, classes attended, or water consumed. Make it a team event and involve employees' families.

Home-Based Fitness Options

You don’t need a gym to stay healthy. Families can:

• Dance together to a playlist of favorite Latin music

• Try YouTube fitness classes in Spanish

• Use household items (chairs, stairs, gallon jugs) for strength training

• Create a “move every hour” rule, especially for families with children on screens all day

A Call to Action: Get Moving—As a Family

Let’s stop saying “I don’t have time to work out” and start saying “Let’s move as a family.” It’s time to redefine fitness as a cultural value, not a luxury.

When Latino families prioritize movement:

• Children learn that health is lifelong

• Parents model self-care and balance

• Seniors feel connected and physically empowered

• Communities thrive together

Movement should never be a solo act. In our culture, the more the merrier.

Helpful Resources to Get Started

• Movimiento Familiar Toolkit (Bilingual) – CDC Physical Activity Resources

• Latino Health Access – Fitness & Walking Clubs – www.latinohealthaccess.org

• Zumba Classes by Location – www.zumba.com

• YMCA Family Fitness Programs – Many offer scholarships and bilingual programming

• Vive Tu Vida En Forma – Local health fairs offering family-centered fitness and wellness workshops