Keeping an exercise routine has been one of the several challenges we’ve all faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. With many gyms still closed or offering limited capacity, many are finding it hard to stay active during quarantine. Additionally, increased responsibilities and stress levels can put exercise at the bottom of the list of priorities. However, physical activity may be just what you need.
Exercise should be a priority
According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise is proven to lower stress levels and improve overall mood. Don’t believe it? Next time you feel stressed, use that as opportunity to fuel a home workout. Now, more than ever, it’s important to make your health a priority. The tips below can help get you started on the right track.
Help your body manage stress
A little movement can help your body fight off or prevent stress. Participating in physical activity helps ramp up your body’s production of feel-good neurotransmitters, called endorphins. Keep in mind, you don’t need to be a world-class athlete for exercise to act as a stress reliever. Anything from yoga, to running, to cleaning the house, can help you feel better and manage stress. Need some resources to help you get on your way? Here are some good ones:
Looking for more ways to manage stress? Check out our ten simple tips!
How to workout at home
Right now, one of the safest places to exercise is at home. If you don’t have equipment, don’t worry. Body weight exercises can be just as effective as a gym workout. With some motivation and positive energy, you can turn any area of your home into a gym.
Need some help with motivation or a routine? Try some free online workouts to add variety into your fitness routine. Grab your laptop, TV, or smartphone, and get moving!
For Full-body Workouts:
Popular Fitness Apps:
For Kids:
Like yoga – be flexible!
Planning ahead is another great way to manage stress. By setting aside time for exercise, you’re more likely to complete it and spend less time stressing about how you’ll fit it in. So, schedule a workout in your calendar on days and times that make sense. If you’re not a morning person, 5 a.m. may not be the best place to start. Try starting an hour or two before work begins or during a lunch break. Regardless of when, hold yourself accountable to getting the exercise done, but remember to be flexible. Plans can change, so adjust accordingly.
Whether you are an essential worker, a parent juggling working from home and homeschooling, or a recent grad looking for a job during these stressful times, these workouts have you covered, throughout every stage of life.
Looking for more helpful information? Check out our article, How to cope with stress during a pandemic.
