The COVID-19 pandemic has seen the world go into lockdown, and as a result, gyms have had to temporarily close until further notice. For many people, this has halted their usual fitness routines, and although going out for walks and jogs is still permitted in many places, it’s not always the most suitable option for some. If you’ve been concerned about your fitness during these times or would simply like to know what you can do at home to keep yourself fit, here are some useful tips and ideas.
Make a Gym Space
Find a suitable space at home that you can use as a workout area. If you have a spare bedroom, space in the garage, basement, attic, etc., it’s better to turn that into your new home gym. Research commercial fitness gyms and consider their layout and what you will need for yours. By creating a specific room designed for workouts, it will be easier to motivate yourself to get moving. Working out next to your couch is only going to tempt you to sit down and put your feet up.
Use Your Stairs
If you don’t have a lot of extra room at home, don’t worry, you can still utilize what you’ve got! For example, you could use your staircase. Walking up and down your stairs or even just a few steps is a great way to raise your heart rate and work your thighs, calves, and glutes. While you will need to invest in some weights to work your arms and do other exercises for your core, using your staircase is a wonderful way to get some good cardio each day and won’t cost a thing. Just be careful that you don’t slip and fall!
Outdoor Activities
Even though running, walking, and other exercises are permitted during lockdown and restrictions are starting to ease, many people are still cautious about rushing out. If you’re a bit more health-and-safety-conscious, you might want to think about using your garden space instead if you have one. It’s a great way to get some fresh air, enjoy the nice weather, and get your sweat on in the privacy of your own home. Run laps, do HIIT exercises, or even enjoy some calming yoga in the sun. If you have kids, get them away from the TV to join you in a family workout.
Videos
If you miss going to classes or want to try a new type of exercise, such as Pilates or Zumba, you may want some guidance as you get used to it. There are countless of online workout videos on YouTube and other websites that cover all sorts of exercises, aimed at those just starting out and people who are more advanced. If you are new to an exercise, however, make sure you’re not doing a video that’s too strenuous; otherwise, you will be feeling it for days!
Life in lockdown has been hard for many reasons, but if you’ve been worrying about your health and fitness, in particular, try some of these suggestions to keep you moving at home.
