Due to the spread of COVID-19, many businesses have temporarily shut their doors. While some states have eased stay at home orders slightly and allowed certain businesses to reopen, many gyms remain closed. These closures have caused many people to forgo their fitness efforts and goals temporarily. Luckily, there are many ways to exercise while still adhering to safety guidelines and remaining at home. Though you may not have all the high-end equipment and luxury services that a gym can offer, you can still achieve an effective workout from the comfort of your own home. This guide explores how to stay fit when the gym is closed through a bit of creativity and self-discipline.
Go digital
Digital technology has been instrumental in allowing people to stay connected in an era of social distancing, but it can also help you stay in shape. Many gyms and fitness instructors have used this time to create online resources to help you maintain your fitness goals. Instagram and YouTube have become a library of instructional videos for various types of exercises. These videos make it easy to follow along with your workout regimen without ever leaving the comfort of your own home. If you’d prefer to take matters into your own hands, you can also incorporate technology into your exercise routine through a personal training app. Such apps allow you to craft your own workout plan and track your progress in various areas, including diet, sleep, and mental health. Many of these personal training apps have modified their offerings in response to COVID-19, providing even further advice on how to stay fit when the gym is closed.
Embrace nature
After staying cooped up indoors for several months, it’s nice to get outdoors. If your home doesn’t have enough space for an indoor workout, or if the weather is simply too nice to stay inside, don’t be afraid to venture into the great outdoors. You can continue your regular workout routine outdoors or change things up with a game of pickup basketball or a jog around your neighborhood. Outdoor games like baseball, basketball, soccer, or even badminton can get your heart pumping as much as, if not more than, your regularly scheduled exercise routine.
Make it a group effort
Sometimes, all it takes to get you motivated to workout is a dedicated exercise buddy. However, in an era of social distancing, working out with a friend is not as easy as it once was. Try scheduling a weekly or daily video chat with your friends to work out together. This will hold you accountable and allow you to catch up at the same time. You can also encourage members of your family or other individuals in your immediate bubble to join you in your exercise efforts. In some instances, you may also be able to invite your friends to join in your outdoor exercise. Just be sure that everyone is wearing a mask and maintaining a safe distance from one another.
