6 Tips for Staying Healthy During a Pandemic!
During times when getting to the gym is hard (or not possible), consider alternatives to stay on track of your health and wellness goals. People struggle with different reasons why not to go to the gym: not a enough time (popular reason), closed for holiday/pandemic, comfort level, financial obligations, lack of motivation, procrastination, this list can be endless. When the gym doesn’t seem like it’s an option, here are six alternatives to help set aside the list of “why not” and change it to “I can”.
1. Get some fresh air.
Go outside! So many activities can be achieved outside such as hiking, walking, and biking. If you're tired of strolling around the neighborhood, try a new greenway or trail (just be sure to keep a safe distance from others). Being outside while exercising can also provide your daily dose of some Vitamin D. Talk about multitasking!
2. Use household items.
Got milk? Milk jugs that is. Fill empty milk jugs with sand or water to add some resistance to your squats. Substitute the couch as a bench for your push ups or body dips. Use the stairs as your cardio and burn more calories than traditional walking.
3. Join an online community.
There is no question that having a support person or group will help you stay motivated and on track of your physical fitness. You can still do this even if the gym is closed. Stay connected, motivated, and educated by joining an online community such as HealthQuest EMPOWER U Coaching Community (Only $20). This Facebook group was designed and is led by fitness and nutrition experts to help you learn tricks and tips on how to stay healthy and reach your wellness goals. EMPOWER U connects you with like-minded individuals who will support you in your personal growth.
4. Play a sport!
Tennis, soccer, basketball, rock climbing, swimming…host your own World Olympics 2020. Playing a sport can be so much fun and motivating. Humans are naturally competitive, so get a family member or friend to join you. If you've got some time, try a sport you've never done but have always been interested in trying. There are plenty of how-to videos online to show all the rules and equipment you will need. There's no better time to learn something new!
5. Chores are for the birds- and the physically active!
No one likes doing chores but they've got to get done. Why not make the best of it and achieve a great workout while doing them? Mowing the yard? Try push mowing rather than riding. Dust mopping the floor? Place old towels or T-shirts underneath your feet and shuffle around. You'll not only collect dust but also endorphins from this cardio workout. Get creative with it!
6. Dance like no one is watching.
That’s right! Turn your living room or kitchen into your own personal dance hall. Turn up the music to your favorite jams and move to the beat of your own drum. Dancing has no rules or restrictions on gender, generation, or genetics. So put on your dancing shoes and enjoy the movement. This is also great if you have kids that need to get rid of some energy!
So even if the gym is not a possibility, you CAN achieve great things with these six alternatives. Please stay safe and take precautions while performing these activities. Always remember to talk with your physician if you have any health concerns.
This blog post was contributed by Samantha Barbour, Health & Wellness Specialist at HealthQuest Fitness & Wellness Center. HealthQuest, located in the Johnston Medical Mall, is a hospital-affiliated fitness and wellness center with medically based programs that will improve your health and your lifestyle. Find out more at www.johnstonhealth.org/healthquest or call 919-938-7581.
