During these times of isolation, it's still important to remain active and healthy. Exercise can serve as a great distraction and get your mind off the more difficult situations happening in the world right now.
1) Go outside for a walk/ run
We are still allowed to go outside, but it is important to take the proper safety precautions. Taking a break outside and relaxing is a great escape from the prison that your own home can become. If you've been feeling unwell and need a breath of fresh air, wear a mask when you go outside. Remember wearing a mask doesn't spell the end of the virus, and oftentimes it's not effective outside of crowded settings such as hospitals. When you go on your walk/ run, please remember to stay at least 6 feet away from others or fellow walkers/ runners. This is the best way to ensure your own safety. Safety is more important than manners in this situation, I promise! I use the app "MapMyWalk" and it tracks my route and walking statistics (like how fast I'm going for certain miles). After you return home, make sure to wash your hands and step into the shower. Even if you haven't been in contact with anyone or suspicious substances, it's always safe and washes off of that workout grime. According to Suzanne Willard, the associate dean at Rutger's University of Nursing, "you're [clothes are] OK if you've gone for a run or walk" and its not likely that your clothes have been contaminated. This just means you don't have to freak out and douse your clothes in every cleaning substance known to man. However, it's always safe to wash your clothes and wipe down your phone and/ or water bottle. Don't freak out and lose your cool!
2) Dance workouts
Dance is an amazing way to get your heart rate up and get some cardio into your workout. If you don't have young kids, or if this is just something you want to save for yourself, there are lots of dance workouts with popular songs online. In my case, I've always been a terrible dancer and wanted to use this time to better myself and learn a simplified version of choreo for the Jonas Brother's song "Sucker". Here's one dance exercise video that I love (I know it's meant for kids... I'm bad at dancing okay): If you end up doing this, make sure to shoot me an email or comment down below as to how it went! Also, if you want to occupy younger kids in your household there are so many fun dance videos that are suited for them on Youtube. Here's one that my family loves:
3) Household Chores
I know this sounds super boring, but this is the perfect opportunity to make your parents super happy or just try and do some damage control after your kids wrecked the house once again. Put on your favorite playlist (I always listen to Broadway playlists when I clean), and put yourself to work. Wipe down your counters, clean out your bathrooms, wipe down your mirrors. You can keep yourself active and safe at the same time!
4) Do an at-home workout
I've saved the most obvious answer for last of course. Don't fall into the mindset that you can't truly workout without all your favorite local gyms. There are so many great workouts that you can do without any gym equipment. There are so many amazing intense workouts on Youtube and even on fitness websites. On the MapMyWalk app that I mentioned above, possible workouts for this isolated time period (and without any equipment) are recommended frequently. Here are some exercise inspiration if you want to create your own workout to suit your needs:
- Cardio: mountain-climbers, jumping jacks, hoola-hooping, jump-roping, walking up and down your stairs - Legs: lunges, squats, wall-sits - Abs: sit-ups, planks, russian twists - Arms: push-ups, plank-push-ups, side push-ups (there are so many variations on push-ups; you wouldn't believe how there are online)
I know it's hard for all you extroverted people to go without interacting with your friends, or maybe even just human contact. Exercise is a great way to get in touch with your friends and family, and make this situation a little bit more bearable. Call a friend when you go out for a walk or invite your family for a dancing session in the living room.
If you've made it this far, comment down below which exercise method seems more your style. As always, stay safe and stay healthy! Sincerely, Sarah
Sources:
6 Comments
Elsa
4/11/2020 04:20:13 pm
Great ways to stay active - I especially like the dancing workouts, nice for an entire family to do together. Thanks for posting!
Reply
Sarah
4/13/2020 05:43:22 am
I’m glad you liked them :)
Reply
Anya
4/11/2020 04:23:59 pm
Great pics and links!!
Reply
Sarah
4/13/2020 05:42:54 am
Thanks Anya :)
Reply
Elba Peter
4/12/2020 01:07:04 am
Great website ... really found the should I wash my clothes section so helpful amongst all the other links you posted
Reply
Sarah
4/13/2020 05:42:27 am
No problem Elba Chitta!
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorMy name is Sarah Mathew and I was a junior in high school when this pandemic hit. I wanted to help my community in the best way I knew how: writing. Archives
December 2020
Categories |