Exercise is important for mental and physical health. Most adults are aware of the benefits of staying active and understand the importance of engaging in some form of exercise, but with growing concerns over Covid-19 there are several disruptions to just about every aspect of ordinary life and exercise routines are no exception. Although it might be tempting to skip your workout during these challenging times, exercise – undoubtedly important under “normal” circumstances – is arguably more important during the pandemic. Here are a few suggestions how you can exercise safely during  an age of social distancing.

Get Outside – Go for a walk, ride a bike, hike a trail or kayak a pond. Reap the benefits of fresh air while being able to maintain a safe distance from others. Challenge yourself with hills or intervals while increasing your time and endurance.

Online Exercise Videos – There is a gigantic market dedicated to online fitness videos. Find a workout that interests you like Kickboxing or Yoga and sign up for a trial period.

Exercise Using Your Own Body Weight – Bodyweight workouts can incorporate a variety of movements that don’t require expensive or fancy equipment…all you need is YOU! A few common exercises include:

• • Burpees
  • Squats
  • Push Ups
  • Planks
  • Lunges
  • Yoga

Household Chores – Feel a sense of accomplishment while completing household chores such as mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, vacuuming, or washing the car. You will be surprised to realize how many calories you can burn in an afternoon of chores.

Exercise Videos – Rent DVDs from the library, borrow one from a friend or purchase a DVD that interests you from either the store or perhaps Amazon. Whether you are interested in Shaun T’s Insanity, Jillian Michaels BodyShred or Stronger Seniors, you are bound to find an exercise regimen that interests you.

Most of us are trying to seek a little normalcy while we navigate through 2020 like a bad dream. The world may feel a little out of control for some of us, but we can seek solace in knowing we do have control over our health. Let the benefits of exercise boost your mood, relieve your stress and clear your mind while promoting your health. So go for that walk, try that burpee or step out of that comfort zone and sign up for an online kickboxing class. Your mind and body will thank you.