Here we are, well into 2021 and here on the eastern side of Australia at least, in another dreaded lockdown. For most of us, the allowed 1 or 2 hours outside we get during the day can be the part we look forward to the most. On top of this, the COVID pandemic has unfortunately forced us all inside. As a result, we have had to be creative with our exercise regime due to the closure of gyms. In this post, I’m going to go through 3 tips to help you stay as active as you can, to help you keep on top of your fitness.
Walking/Running
I know it might sound boring but walking or running is actually one of the best ways to stay active. I say walking or running as it will depend on your fitness level and what you like.
Take the time on your walk/run to be present and enjoy the fresh air! Take a different route, explore new areas of your neighbourhood or simply enjoy the time with a friend and socialise.
Incidental Exercise
For those that don’t know what incidental exercise is, incidental exercise that you get during the day. Whether that be, walking to the local cafe for a coffee, taking the bins out to the street or chasing around after kids if you have them. Anything that gets you moving during the day, is going to:
Increase your heart rate
Burn calories
Increase your step count
Research shows that people that take 10,000 steps a day experience health benefits including weight loss, improved glucose tolerance, and reduced blood pressure.
Figuring out how to add steps into your day can be challenging at first. It is as simple as sitting down, looking at your work day and finding easy ways to incorporate it.
Put your computer in a different room rather than right next to you.
Set an alarm for every 1-2 hours and taking a break from work and going for a quick walk up and down the drive way.
Going for a walk when facing a mental block to free up the mind and body.
Pilates/ Body Weight Training
With gyms closed, completing strength training exercises can be quite challenging, especially since sales in at home gym equipment have gone through the roof. Luckily, you have your body. Body weight training can be some of the most effective, way of starting out with your strength training. Pilates, or body weight strength based exercises can help increase strength, improve mobility and flexibility.
The great thing about Pilates based or body weight exercises is that they require little or no equipment or space. Therefore, making them ideal to perform at home. For ideas on what can be done please visit our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8heJaGoqrtgieb14jGwlYw
Alternatively, you can join in our weekly online Pilates classes!
For those people that would like some extra help we are offering online group sessions as well as individual tailored home exercise programs to help people stay active during lockdown. To book an appointment please visit our website or call us on 0419 159 903