Summer with pre-teens and teens is… a ride. They sleep late, they eat everything, and half the time you’re not even sure where they are in the house. But here’s something kind of magical: even though they may act like they don’t want anything to do with you, a fun, no-pressure workout together can actually turn into quality time. (And yes, you’ll both break a sweat.)
This isn’t about burpees until someone cries or forcing your teen to do squats while complaining. This is a no-equipment, full-body 20-minute workout that’s built for moms and older kids to move side by side. You’ll laugh. You’ll groan. You’ll probably get a high-five by the end.
The goal? Move your bodies, boost your moods, and maybe turn a regular summer day into a shared memory.
The “Strong Together” Workout: Mom + Pre-Teen/Teen Edition
Time Needed: 20 minutes
Equipment: None
Music Tip: Let the kid DJ (within reason) to keep it fun.
Style: Partner-style workout- you each do the same moves, at your own pace, side by side.
Warm-Up (3 minutes)
- Jog in place (30 sec)
- High knees (30 sec)
- Arm circles + shoulder rolls (1 min)
- 10 jumping jacks + 10 air squats
Laugh at each other’s form, shake out the nerves, and get ready to move.
Main Circuit (15 minutes)
Do 3 rounds. Each move is 45 seconds on, 15 seconds rest.
- Bodyweight Squats
Challenge: Who can get the lowest with good form? - Push-Up Challenge
On toes or knees- see how many good ones you can both do in 45 seconds. - Plank High-Five
Face each other in a plank. Reach across and high-five opposite hands. Core AND coordination. - Lunge + Twist
Lunge forward, twist toward the front knee. Great for legs, balance, and mobility. - Mountain Climbers
Turn it into a race (but no injuries, please).
Optional: 60-second dance break after each round. Seriously. Put on a ridiculous song and go for it.
Cool Down (2 minutes)
Stretch it out together:
- Standing toe touch
- Shoulder stretch
- Side bends
- Deep breaths, arms up and down
End with a fist bump or silly handshake. You earned it.
Why It’s Worth It
Working out together doesn’t have to be about fitness goals. It’s about connection. You’re showing your kid that taking care of your body matters- and you’re doing it in a way that’s fun, real, and totally doable. Plus, moving together makes it easier to talk. No eye contact needed, no pressure to chat. Just shared effort, shared sweat, and maybe a few inside jokes by the end.
So next time you’re both bored, cranky, or just needing something different, roll out a couple towels and press play on a favorite playlist. Summer memories don’t always need a beach. Sometimes, they’re made right in your living room.
Latest posts by Meredith (see all)
- 20 Minute at-Home Workout for Moms and Kids to Do Together This Summer - June 13, 2025
- 3 Big Benefits Of Intermittent Fasting Beyond Weight Loss - June 2, 2025
- How to Help Your Family Adjust After an Overseas Move - May 25, 2025
Leave a Reply