Exercise might be the only way to stay sane right now
I just got off an hour-long conference call (that was so unnecessary for me to be on), and all I was thinking the entire time was, I just want to get outside and go for a walk. Daily exercise has been a priority for me for more than two years now, and within the last week it’s become even more essential for my sanity.
My new normal.
I already did a streaming Pilates session this morning, but my afternoon walk works double-duty as phone time with friends—when I can talk about the stuff I don’t want my husband or son to overhear. I also take solace in listening to music and getting a much-needed break from the news, texts and all things COVID-19. And, it just feels good to breathe in fresh air.
If you’re not already a workout person, this is an amazing way to add a bit of structure to your day. And considering there isn’t much else to do, I dare you to give me an excuse as to why you can’t be more active (unless you’re physically unable for some reason). Listen people… Even just a few weeks of Netflix and junk food could make it hard to zip up our jeans when we actually have a place to wear them again—and it’s looking like we’re going to be in this situation for a heck of a lot longer than that.
In addition to those aforementioned walks, here are a few FREE apps and ways to break a sweat. Who knows, maybe we’ll all be a little more fit when this outbreak is behind us!
FitOn: Dance, cardio, strength, HIIT, barre, yoga, Pilates, prenatal, postnatal—you name it. This app gets extra points for classes led by celebrities (like Gabrielle Union) and celebrity trainers.
Strava: If you’re a runner or biker, this app can help you track your time, route and distance and it lets you be social at the same time. Why not start a virtual run club?
Nike Training Club: In addition to more than 200 free workouts of every kind, you can upgrade to premium for nutrition and wellness features for sleep, recovery and mindfulness.
YouTube: In our app-driven world, it can be easy to forget that YouTube is a treasure trove of fitness options. If you really want to keep things interesting, try throwback videos from Jane Fonda (and wear a leotard and legwarmers while you’re at it)!
