Six New Exercise Habits You Can Build While Social Distancing

The coronavirus has forced the world to stay home and practice social-distancing. Many establishments have closed their doors to keep people from going out and being in close contact with others which may spread the virus. Gyms and other fitness centers have also been forced to remain closed until the pandemic is over and the risk of infection is gone. While this may affect your gym routine, it doesn't mean giving up fitness entirely. It just means you need to get creative and start a new exercise habit.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

It’s more important than ever that you exercise regularly as it helps build immunity, which is vital for your physical and mental health at this stressful time. We don’t know how long this pandemic will last and how long we will be advised against social gatherings. Fortunately, there are still ways to work out with others while still observing social distancing. Here are some tips:

1. Stay Connected on Your Walk or Run.

Workout buddies are still possible if you set a specific time to walk and talk on the phone simultaneously. You may be separated physically, but staying connected via your phone and earphones can help ensure you both finish your walk or run.

2. Exercise with a Group.

Leverage video chat tools to exercise with your favorite workout buddies. You can exercise with friends and family via video or even organize an online dance party. Find the music you like and dance for half an hour instead of a regular boring cardio workout on your own.

Photo by Prateek Katyal from Pexels

3. Take an Online Fitness Class.

Many fitness classes are also available online. Some are even live-streamed so that you can follow the instructor at home. The only equipment you may need are weights and workout shoes.

4. Find an Online Personal Trainer.

You can also find a personal trainer who can work with you through video chat to have two-way communication during the training. Your trainer can still correct you and hear your feedback. Make sure you research the web to find a personal trainer you trust and like.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

5. Do Exercises That Take Up Minimal Space.

If you want to fully observe social distancing by staying at home, find an exercise spot in your house. It may surprise you that it doesn’t take up a lot of space to do exercises like jumping jacks, squats, planks, push-ups, and burpees. You may even run up and down your stairs to get a great cardio workout.

6. Work out in the Pool.

Your pool is perfectly safe to swim in during this pandemic. Experts say that with proper pool maintenance and disinfection, the virus responsible for COVID-19 becomes inactive in your pool. If you’ve mostly used your pool for fun and relaxation, it’s time to recognize your pool is also the perfect place for you to start a new exercise habit. Start by swimming laps or engaging in water aerobics.

Thank you Pool Troopers for this guest post.