Have you been struggling to find new ways to stay fit during the COVID-19 pandemic? Many of the ways that we used to incorporate movement into our day, such as gyms and fitness classes, have been closed and canceled for the time being. Even though many of us are confined to our homes, that doesn’t mean that your health has to suffer. There are plenty of ways to get your workout in without leaving the safety and comfort of your own home! Here are some of our favorite suggestions for working out from home while social distancing!
At-Home Workout Videos and Tapes
If you’re old enough, you might remember watching Jane Fonda and other fitness gurus on tapes and DVDs. While the viewing method has changed, these types of videos can still be immensely helpful for getting in a productive workout from your living room. Nowadays, YouTube has a hefty plethora of amazing videos that can get the job done. Following along with a video increases accountability and ensures that you aren’t giving up too early or getting lazy. Additionally, having the guidance of a trainer or other fitness expert can help you make sure that your form is correct.
Get Outside!
If you’re lucky enough to live somewhere with access to outdoor space, such as a yard, use it as much as you can! You can get some sunlight while also getting some exercise. Take a walk in the yard to get some cardio in. Or for the ultimate yoga sesh, take your mat outside and get some great stretching time in the sunshine. If you live in a more urban area, try doing this on your balcony, or find a secluded area in a nearby park!
Creative Exercise Equipment
You might be struggling to figure out a good workout routine when you don’t have access to the gym. The good news is that you can supplement some of your favorite gym equipment from the comfort of your home. Just because you don’t have official weights doesn’t mean you can’t lift. Use objects from around your house as your weights. Popular options include water bottles, laundry baskets, and pantry items. Try holding something with some heft to it, such as a bag of flour, while doing some squats or curls. You might feel a bit silly, but you’ll get some more resistance and build those muscles.
Apartment-Friendly Workouts
During this time, it’s especially important to be a considerate neighbor. In apartment buildings, workouts that involve a lot of running around and jumping can be ultra-loud for your downstairs neighbor, but this doesn’t mean you can’t get a good sweat in. Bodyweight exercises are a great way to strengthen your muscles and get your blood pumping without all the loud banging. If you’re craving some cardio, a yoga flow is usually a fairly quiet endeavor.
Exercise is an important part of every healthy lifestyle. It’s crucial for proper heart health. For more heart-healthy insight, check out our blog! If you want some professional guidance, our team at the Cardiovascular Group can help!
