It is easy to be less physically active and more sedentary with this new routine of social distancing. Curling up on the couch or sitting at a desk all day has become the new normal for many people staying at home. While gyms and rec centers are closed, there are ways to maintain your fitness while practicing social distancing. Exercising poses a variety of physical benefits, and can be especially beneficial during this period to help alleviate increased stress and anxiety during this time of uncertainty. Additionally, keeping up with an exercise routine can provide a sense of normalcy, routine and control during this time.
Check out our article here about the importance of physical literacy and an interview with Mr. Fuller about the future of physical literacy at Sentinel and the interconnectedness between physical health, mental health and academic success.
While gyms and rec centres are closed, this period of quarantine is a great time to build new fitness habits and keep up with your regular fitness regime in a new way. With more free time, this is an opportunity to try out new workouts and set new fitness goals. Here are some of the ways you can stay fit in quarantine
Do an at-home workout video on YouTube
There are thousands of free at home workouts available on YouTube. Even if you don’t have any equipment, lots of workouts require no equipment and only some empty space. At home workouts are super convenient because they vary in time, difficulty level and workout style (eg. HIIT, pilates, cardio kickboxing, etc) and focus (eg. abs, arms, etc). Many YouTube workouts only require equipment found in your house, like a couch or a chair.
Some of the best YouTube channels for at-home workouts are MadFit, Blogilates, Popsugar Fitness, Yoga with Adrienne, Fitness Blender, the Fitness Marshall, and HASFit.
With so many workouts and trainers online, quarantine is a great time to try a new type of workout, all from the convenience of your own living room.
Go Outside
The sun is shining! Exercising outside is a great way to get some fresh air and feel the sunshine. You can go for a walk, go for or a run or go for a bike ride, just be sure to keep your six feet distance from someone else (not from your household). It can be tempting to stay indoors all day, but exercising outside has the added benefit of getting some fresh air and provide a nice change of scenery from the walls of your house. Apps such as Nike Run Club, Map my Run by Under Armour, Strava, and 10k Runner can help you track your progress. Even just walking outside for 15 mins while listening to music can be a great way to relieve stress and anxiety and boost your mood.
This is also a great time to do some extra training for fall sports. Interested in joining Sentinel’s cross-country team next fall? Now is a great time to go for long – distance runs outside and beat your time.
Exercise as a tool for connection
Exercise can be a way to connect with friends and family. You could set up an obstacle course in your backyard to do with your family, or do an online workout class while face timing a friend. There are even live dance classes or yoga classes you can do in real time. A friend or family member can also help to keep you accountable. Starting a fitness challenge and doing a workout everyday with a friend (virtually) or a family member can give you a sense of productivity, accomplishment and routine.
This new period of quarantine is undoubtedly stressful and nerve-wracking. Incorporating exercise can help relieve stress, anxiety and pent up energy, make you feel productive and provide a sense of control over your life.
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