Fitness in the Time of COVID
Unless you're an epidemiologist you were probably, like me, blindsided by just how long we've been shut down because of the pandemic. You may have had a fitness routine in the gym that's completely impossible thanks to COVID-19. Life has changed in a lot of frustrating, discouraging, and upsetting ways, which is why it's more important than ever that you stay physically active to keep yourself sane. So, what can you do?
Walk, bike, run, and hike outside. Gyms may be closed, but the outside is always open. Just be mindful of social distancing best-practices, and carry a mask or wear a gaiter in case you are unable to maintain distance from others.
Work out at home. Even if you're not one of the lucky few who had a home gym before the lockdown, there are plenty of exercises that require no equipment, or something you already have at home. Examples: squats, push-ups, jumping jacks, chair dips, lunges, planks, crunches.
Zoom workouts. If you love taking classes, you're in luck. Many gyms are offering virtual workout classes for their members. If your gym isn't, you can follow along to a YouTube video, maybe even on a group call with some of your friends.
Outdoor gyms. Some gyms have been able to move their equipment outdoors and continue operations, with a limit on how many people are able to work out at a time and stronger sanitization methods. Working out in a mask isn't the most fun, but it's better than not getting to go to the gym at all!
Whatever you choose to do, remember the most important task: be kind to yourself. We're living through unprecedented times, and all struggling to adjust to the new normal. Take care of your body, and accept that things may not look or feel the way they used to, at least for a little while.
Stay safe and healthy out there.
