COVID-19 and exercise

As of this week, gyms and fitness centres have closed to help fight the spread of COVID-19.

While we understand this is the best thing for everyone, it has left many of us feeling a little lost as to how we can maintain our fitness regimen without our usual equipment or even the ability to leave the house.

Now more than ever, it is important to remain active. As well all the physical benefits, exercise helps to improve mood and wellbeing, as well as reducing stress and anxiety, which many people will be experiencing right now.

Exercising during social distancing or even isolation does not have to be difficult, however you may need to use your imagination depending what is available to you.

For example, if you are not able to go for your usual run, think of dynamic exercises such as skipping, jumping (star jumps, tuck jumps, box jumps, burpees), short sprints in your backyard or even running on the spot as these are all great exercises to increase your heart rate.

If you don’t have access to your normal gym weights, use empty milk cartons filled with water, bricks, books, bags with tinned food in them or even your (small) kids!

Motivation may also be lacking without your usual gym or centre, so we suggest trying to do family workouts to get everyone involved.

Skype your best friend and do a workout together or take your dog out for a longer walk.

There are many ways to work out from home without all the equipment and still achieve a really good workout.

We’ve put together some body-weight exercise programs, foam rolling programs and stretching programs to help keep you motivated

Also check out our Instagram page for regular exercise inspiration from our staff – @lifecarepointwalterphysio

Stay safe!

Life goes on and we will all get through this together.