In 2023, we have successfully organised a series of family-friendly sport events in Vienna to promote the BONTS project!
The BONTS project – “Building Family Bonds through Sports” aims to boost family participation in sports and games. We’re creating adapted versions of popular activities so that everyone, from the youngest to the oldest family members, can join in and have fun together.
Mindful Family Hike
The first event we organised was a combination of hiking and yoga, complemented by mindful exercises to help people destress and find some peace and quiet in nature. Our hiking adventure began at Heiligenstadt, where we started our 12 km hike along the Danube to Kritzendorf in Klosterneuburg. The hike was on a flat surface, making it suitable for small children and strollers. Along the way, we made several stops where families could relax and practice simple yoga exercises. These exercises were led by Mag. Katharina Wogrolly, an experienced yoga instructor and holistic coach.
The yoga exercises included breathing techniques, stretching, nature experiences, grounding, and meditation. These activities benefited both physical health and mental well-being. Yoga and trekking in nature are known to reduce stress and improve mental clarity, making it the perfect activity for families to relax and recharge after a busy week!
Outdoor Family Adventure
Another successful family event was organised in May 2024, inviting families with small children and toddlers to join a simple trek in Lainzer Tiergarten complemented by a series of outdoor games and fun activities.
Our journey started with a brief 3km hike, during which children could learn about their surrounding, local flora and enjoy the outdoors. Several breaks were planned, complemented by various engaging games that sparked curiosity and discovery among both the children and adults in our group. It was a wonderful experience of exploring and connecting with nature. As our adventure came to an end, we enjoyed a well-deserved picnic, celebrating the joy of togetherness. Families with young children joined us, delighting in the warmth of a sunny afternoon and cherishing shared moments of fun and activity.
Benefits of family sports and games:
- Quality time spent together
- Improved physical and mental health
- Strengthened bonds
- Stress release
- Development of social skills
- and most importantly…FUN!
