Focus on Physical Activity
Physical activity is a fundamental ingredient of good health at any time of life, let alone when we’re trying to deal with uncertainty and change.
BENEFITS
We’re not telling you anything new when we say the physical and mental health benefits are almost endless. From assisting with sleep, weight management, diabetes and heart disease prevention and management as well as helping us manage stress by burning up stress chemicals and releasing happy hormones there are so many reasons why we should be exercising regularly.
BARRIERS
But even knowing this many of us still don’t move anywhere near as much as we should/could, and many that do may have recently had their normal routine completely turned upside down! (The Gym is closed, Bootcamp shutdown, yoga/dance studios no-go zones and dancing on your own doesn’t really appeal)
HOME OPTIONS
The good news is there is still a huge range of exercise options you can incorporate in your day that doesn’t even require you to leave the house. The only equipment you need is 1 body and 1 brain and your good to go! (if you’re missing either or both of these pieces of equipment please seek medical attention immediately….)
- Check if your gym/yoga class is offering online options (many businesses have quickly adapted to the current situation)
- YouTube has a huge range of free exercise sessions you can try (e.g. www.bodycoachtv.com) but makes sure you choose an option that suits your fitness level and start gently.
- Exercise with the kids – trampoline, play a favourite sport in the backyard, dance to your favourite tunes, Wii/PlayStation interactive exercise games, go for a 30min walk or bike ride (abiding by isolation / social distancing guidelines)
- Try a basic bodyweight circuit on the HealthCi app Click here but remember:
- a. Keep all movements within a pain-free range
- b. Start well within your capability and gradually increase by 1-2 reps/mins each session
- c. Stop if you have joint or specific pain during or after the session (general muscle soreness is fine but should reduce within 2 -3 days)
JUST DO SOMETHING
It doesn’t really matter what you do – as long as you’re heart rate is moderately elevated for at least a few minutes you will be doing yourself some good. And remember no matter how slow you are going or how little you do, you are still well ahead of the person you were when you were sitting on the couch!
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