Ways to stay fit during quarantine

photo by Henry Hays

With Covid-19 keeping almost everyone at home, it is practically impossible to go to the gym and workout. However, there are simple things people can do to keep in shape and get a good workout at home. If you have weights, those can be used to get a lift in; however, for those who don’t have gym equipment, simply lifting body weight can provide a great workout. 

For your upper body and chest, push-ups are a great way to get stronger. Push-ups take little space to do and can be done almost anywhere and at any time. If you have time between meetings or are waiting for food to deliver, push-ups can allow you to still get a quick workout in. If you are setting time aside for a workout, attempting to do as many pushups as possible without stopping can leave you sore for a couple days. Push-ups provide a workout for your arms, chest and core; different variations can be used to work different muscles and provide a different workout. 

Tricep dips work a different part of your arms and are another easy workout you can do at home. Simply find a platform around knee to waist level to place your hands and you can workout. Furniture such as a desk or nightstand are great for doing tricep dips at home. 

There are a slew of different core workouts you can do at your home. Planks, sit-ups, v-ups, and Russian twists are just a few different exercises you can do. Like push-ups, these take very little space and can be done both with and without weight. Core workouts are a great way to stay in shape as your core is essential for all sports and activities that require movement, as they help increase your balance and stability.

Squats might be the easiest workout that can be done at home. All you need is some space to stand and you’re good to go. As long as you execute the exercise with proper form -it’s recommended your legs reach 90 degrees – you will get in a great lower body workout. Different variations of squats such as one legged squats or something such as lunges can provide a diverse workout. 

Although most public places are closed, running is still a great way to get a workout. Simply going for a jog or running sprints will work your whole body. Even just going for a walk is beneficial for your health. As long as you make sure to keep your distance from others, running outside is one of the best ways to stay in shape during quarantine. 

Everyone is different and has their own athletic abilities; however, these exercises can provide a great workout no matter what shape you are in. Adjusting the workout to fit your needs is simple and easy. It’s also important to make sure you give your body time to recover and get a good night’s sleep; these will boost your energy level and keep you on track. Making sure to eat healthily is also important. While a diet is far from required, it doesn’t hurt to avoid junk food and make sure you eat protein and get the nutrients you need.

While we are all cooped up, it’s important to stay healthy and in shape. Covid-19 should not be used as an excuse for not working out. In fact, no time is better to focus on your health and get into shape.