"Often the bike was just to kindergarten but the children learned about doing exercise and sport and so when they were old enough to ride, they got their own bikes and we rode as a family."
Browne would visit the gym at lunchtime with her toddler who would be occupied eating lunch in the buggy while she worked out - they would then go to the park and play ball together.
With the children older and now involved in their own sports, the Browne family continue to train together and support each other.
"I've been squeezing in a run between dropping my daughter at her hockey game warm-up and when the game starts, so I can watch.
"It's about being organised and prepared. I have my sports bag packed nearly all the time," she says.
Father of two and adventure-racer David Blundell agrees that being organised is critical to getting the sport/family balance right.
"As a family we map out weekends in advance so that our better halves can also plan adventures and events that are important to them," he says.
"We think about whether an event can double as a family adventure or whether it's private time, or time catching up with good friends."
Blundell is training for GodZone, a tough six-day non-stop adventure race that combines kayaking, mountain biking and off-road running.
"Things like the Great Forest Rogaine allow family events to double as training. I will carry a decent pack which doubles as weight so I get some GodZone training thrown in, and means the kids are well supplied with food, water, and warm clothes."
He admits it can sometimes be a challenge to get the children out to events so it is important for them to understand that being active outdoors is part of their family culture.
"It gives the kids a solid role model, new skills and shows them how much fun the NZ outdoors is. My personal stance is that everybody needs to do things they enjoy. Our kids participate in activities they enjoy and so do we," he says.
"Family time is important so we make time for that too."
Mum, runner and elite orienteer Rachel Smith says regular exercise is integral to her health and happiness.
"After a break from running after my first child, I realised how vital it is to my wellbeing! Running is 'me' time. It is my meditation," she says.
Smith is also training for GodZone, and is very clear about what is needed to fit regular exercise into the schedule once children come along.
"A supportive partner. Good communication so we can juggle training, children's activities, shopping, etc. Planning ahead and being organised, but also being realistic that sometimes it just doesn't work out."
Like Browne and Blundell, Smith believes maintaining a commitment to health and fitness sends an important message to children.
"I like that our kids see us out regularly running or biking and occasionally racing. The kids know Mummy is so much happier when she can get out for a run or bike."
Smith will compete in the Great Forest Rogaine six-hour mountain-bike on July 25, then extend her training as she helps Orienteering Bay of Plenty to clear the course on foot.
